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19 dead, 3 injured in Russian helicopter crash in Siberia

By Amy R. Connolly
At least 19 oil-industry workers died and three others were hospitalized when their helicopter crashed in northwestern Siberia. Image from Google maps
At least 19 oil-industry workers died and three others were hospitalized when their helicopter crashed in northwestern Siberia. Image from Google maps

MOSCOW, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- At least 19 oil-industry workers died and three others were hospitalized when their helicopter crashed in northwestern Siberia.

Russian official said 22 people were aboard the Mi-8 helicopter that was traveling from Vankor oil and gas field to Staryi Yrengoi in the Yamalo-Nenets region when it crashed. All three crew members and 16 of the 19 workers aboard died. One survivor was able to use a cell phone to call for help.

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An early investigation showed weather conditions may have played a role in the crash. A special commission will look into other causes as well.

"The investigation deals with three main versions of the crash of the aircraft: a violation of the rules of operation and flight safety, equipment failure, and adverse weather conditions. None of these is so far regarded as most likely," the investigation committee said in a statement.

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