Two dead in helicopter crash in south Charlotte

Two people were pronounced dead at the scene of a helicopter crash off I-77 near Tyvola and Nations Ford Road, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Three other patients were transported to the hospital.

CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings commended the pilot’s efforts in diverting the helicopter away from traffic.

“That’s certainly a heroic act and probably saved lives,” he said.

The crash has shut down all of Interstate 77 near the Nations Ford exit, according to CMPD Tuesday afternoon.

It will remain closed for an extended period of time, police say.

This story is developing.