Latest local report, here in SW Florida:

VENICE - One person is dead after a helicopter crash in the Gulf of Mexico just off of Casey Key.

According to the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, three people were on board the chopper at the time of the crash.

It happened about two miles out into the Gulf of Mexico off the waters of the 3300 block of Casey Key Road in Sarasota.

Medical responders were called to the North Jetty Park in Venice, where one of the passengers was taken away by Bayflite.

One person onboard the helicopter has died. A 2nd passenger was taken by ambulance to Venice Regional Medical Center. The pilot flown by Bayflite to Bayfront Medical Center with injury to his leg. He was conscious

The sheriff's office says the helicopter lost control and crashed into the boat.

The 2 passengers on the boat were not hurt.

The helicopter company was hired by powerboat magazine to shoot video and pictures.

The coast guard is trying to recover the helicopter out of the water about 1 mile offshore in 20 feet of water.

very sad. 9/11 also.

Wow what horrible news. Prayers go out to the injured and my deepest condolences to the families of those who have died, as well as those who had to witness such a horrific event.

SARASOTA – A photo shoot turned deadly in the waters near Sarasota on Tuesday morning when a helicopter crashed, killing two people and injuring another

Terrible News for all involved.....God Speed........

Prayers go out to all involved.

Not sure what to say, but all we can do is hope for the best:confused: :o :( :(

AMF Miss GEICO sends all its prayers to our Powerboat Mag family.

Marc, Scott, Haggin, Gilbreath

very sad.....RIP

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone today.

Godspeed our friends, godspeed.

Julie & Matt