The family of an 11-year-old boy injured in the Oct. 11 helicopter crash in Huntington Beach has identified him as Oliver Holland, describing him as “the smartest, funniest boy” they know as he recovers from serious injuries.
Oliver was struck when a helicopter suddenly dropped from the sky and crashed near the Waterfront Beach Resort along Pacific Coast Highway, according to officials and video obtained by KTLA, injuring five people. Video from the scene shows bystanders rushing to help the boy, who appeared trapped beneath the aircraft moments after impact.
His sister, Madeline, confirmed his identity in a verified GoFundMe post, writing that Oliver underwent surgery for a collapsed lung and a brain bleed. “Oliver was enjoying a day at the beach when suddenly a helicopter malfunctioned and came crashing down on him,” she wrote. “We are praying for a safe recovery.”
Madeline said both of Oliver’s parents have taken leave from work to support him and emphasized that the family is not seeking any type of payout, only help covering medical expenses. “Please be kind — my family is truly hurting and so am I,” she added.
In her post, Madeline wrote that the family was still trying to understand what happened, adding that they weren’t sure who owned the helicopter but believed it may have been participating in the Cars ‘N Copters on the Coast event. City officials have confirmed the helicopter was affiliated with that event and said both the FAA and NTSB are investigating.
On Oct. 14, Madeline shared another update thanking supporters. “We appreciate all of your guys’ advice, prayers, and donations,” she wrote.
Five people were hospitalized after the crash — two aboard the helicopter and three on the ground — according to Huntington Beach police. Witnesses told KTLA they saw the rotor detach from the tail before the aircraft slammed into palm trees and a pedestrian bridge near the resort.
According to the Orange County Register, Eric Nixon, a pilot from Redlands, was operating the Bell 222 helicopter when it crashed. His father-in-law told the outlet Nixon suffered broken ribs and crushed vertebrae but is expected to recover.
Oliver’s family continues to ask for prayers and support as they await further updates on his recovery. KTLA has reached out to Oliver’s family for an update on his condition.
The post Family says boy hurt in Huntington Beach crash had brain bleed, collapsed lung appeared first on KTLA.
