A military helicopter transporting high-ranking officials who were evaluating the earthquake damage was about to land in the vicinity when the pilot lost control. Mere seconds later, the helicopter plummeted to the ground — landing directly on several vehicles filled with earthquake survivors.

According to the state prosecutor’s office in Oaxaca, where the incident occurred, fourteen individuals on the ground lost their lives, and at least 21 others sustained injuries. Among the deceased were at least three children.

Interior Secretary Alfonso Navarrete, Oaxaca Governor Alejandro Murat, and all other individuals aboard the helicopter escaped with only minor injuries, as reported by officials.

Navarrete informed a local journalist that the pilot of the Blackhawk helicopter lost control approximately 100 feet above the ground while preparing to land in the town of Jamiltepec, situated about 20 miles from the earthquake’s epicenter.