The Chicago Tribune reported on a tragic incident involving a REACT helicopter that crashed last night, resulting in the deaths of all three crew members aboard. A local witness described how the medical helicopter, which was en route to pick up a patient from Mendota Community Hospital, flew very close to his home before suddenly descending and crashing into a field near Rochelle. According to officials, the helicopter was registered to Rockford Memorial Hospital and was carrying pilot Andy Olesen, along with flight nurses Jim Dillow and Karen Hollis. Lee County Sheriff John Varga stated that there was no indication the aircraft struck any power lines or structures. He noted that multiple calls from witnesses suggested something unusual about the flight, particularly that it was flying at an unusually low altitude. Stephen Richey, a former flight respiratory therapist based in Indianapolis, emphasized the high level of training required for those who work in air ambulance services. Pilots must be capable of landing on short notice at makeshift sites, while flight nurses often provide critical care to patients in life-threatening conditions. Richey described these professionals as some of the most dedicated individuals in the medical field. “You’ll never find a more committed group of people,†he said. “They give everything for their patients.†The Rockford Register Star added further details about the victims. Pilot Andy Olesen, 65, was just days away from retirement. Karen Hollis, one of the flight nurses, was a mother of two young children. The crash occurred around 8:30 p.m. near Compton in Lee County, south of U.S. 30 and west of Illinois 251. No patients were onboard at the time of the crash. Olesen had been a long-time member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Rockford, where his pastor, Ralph Kuespert, shared the news of his impending retirement. Karen Hollis was known for her energetic and positive personality, according to Christine Klekamp, executive director of Spectrum Progressive School in Rockford. This tragic event has left the community in shock, with many remembering the dedication and professionalism of the crew. Their loss is deeply felt by colleagues, patients, and families alike. You can read the full article here. Additional coverage is available here, here, and here. Thanks to Chris and Dan for the information. All rights reserved by kschmidt626 Steering Components,Bushing,Steering Oil Tank,Busbar Support Assem Ningbo Yongxin Auto Parts Co., Ltd. , https://www.yongxinautoparts.com