Shocking: The owner of the slackline stretched across the canyon that caused David McCarty’s helicopter crash, resulting in the deaths of three family members, has been found…
Owner of Canyon Slackline Linked to Fatal Helicopter Crash Located; Investigators Reveal What He Knew Before the Tragedy
Authorities investigating a catastrophic helicopter crash in a remote canyon—which killed three members of the same family—confirmed today that they have located and questioned the owner of a slackline stretched across the canyon at the time of the accident.
Investigators say the discovery has dramatically altered the direction of the case.
What Police Say Happened
According to officials, the helicopter descended into the canyon during a routine maneuver when it struck an unmarked, high-tension line suspended between rock faces. Early assumptions centered on mechanical failure—until aerial footage revealed the obstruction.
“This wasn’t a natural hazard,” a senior investigator said. “It was placed there.”
The Slackline Owner Found
Police confirmed the slackline’s owner was located after:
Equipment serial numbers were traced
Social media posts surfaced showing prior canyon crossings
Witnesses reported seeing a setup team hours before the crash
The individual reportedly acknowledged installing the slackline without aviation warning markers and without notifying authorities.
“They admitted they didn’t believe aircraft flew that low,” a source said.
Why This Is So Alarming
Investigators say the line:
Was nearly invisible from the air
Was not permitted in the flight corridor
Created a lethal trap for low-altitude aircraft
Aviation experts say the collision would have been unavoidable once the aircraft entered the canyon.
Legal Status
Authorities emphasized that being found and questioned is not a finding of guilt. Prosecutors are reviewing whether the actions constitute:
Criminal negligence
Reckless endangerment
Or violations of aviation safety laws
No charges have been announced at this time.
Families Devastated
Relatives of the victims were notified before the public update. In a brief statement, they said they were “shattered to learn the crash may have been preventable.”
What Comes Next
Investigators are now:
Mapping all unauthorized installations in the region
Reviewing permits and prior warnings
Consulting aviation authorities on enforcement gaps
“This wasn’t an accident of nature,” an official said. “It was a human decision with irreversible consequences.”
Further updates are expected as authorities determine whether charges will be filed.
