UPDATE: 2 killed after Lifesaver medical helicopter crash near Highway 280 in Shelby Co.

SHELBY COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) - Two people have died following a Lifesaver medical helicopter crash near Highway 280 on Bear Creek Road and Mountain Oaks Drive.

The Shelby County Coroner’s office confirmed the identities of the two victims on Monday. Pilot Marc Gann, 63, of Sylacauga and RN Samuel Russell, 43, of Goodwater, died as a result of the crash.

Pilot Marc Gann, 63, of Sylacauga and RN Samuel Russell, 43, of Goodwater, died as a result of... — Pilot Marc Gann, 63, of Sylacauga and RN Samuel Russell, 43, of Goodwater, died as a result of the crash.(Gann Family)

Pilot Marc Gann, 63, of Sylacauga and RN Samuel Russell, 43, of Goodwater, died as a result of... — Pilot Marc Gann, 63, of Sylacauga and RN Samuel Russell, 43, of Goodwater, died as a result of the crash.(Chief Shane Phillips with Childersburg Fire)

The crash happened just before 5:30 p.m. Sunday, April 2.

Shelby Co. authorities say 2 people died Sunday when a medical helicopter crashed off Hwy 280. — Shelby Co. authorities say 2 people died Sunday when a medical helicopter crashed off Hwy 280.(WBRC)

The helicopter was sent to help a hiker who had breathing problems and chest pains. A landing site was set up and that’s when the crash happened.

The hiker passed away at Grandview Medical Center.

Watch Shelby Co. authorities hold a news conference below:

Authorities say three crew members were on the helicopter when the crash happened. One died at the scene and two others were taken to hospitals. One member died at the hospital. The third member walked away unharmed.

The hiker was also taken to a hospital.

The road is closed in both directions. It is unknown when the road will reopen.

Deputies and other first responders are currently on the scene of an aircraft accident in the area of Bear Creek Road (Co Rd 43) and Mountain Oaks Drive. The road is closed in both directions, and it is likely it will be closed for an extended period of time.
— Shelby County SO (@ShelbyCountySO) April 2, 2023

Brenda Gann, the wife of Pilot Marc Gann provided WBRC the following statement:

Senator Tuberville added the following statement: “Deeply saddened to hear of the fatal crash of a medical helicopter in Birmingham. The victims died doing what they did every day: serving others. They are heroic examples of the selflessness shown by our first responders and nurses every day. Please join me in praying for their families at this difficult time.”

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