Pilot killed in gyrocopter crash in Polk County

A pilot died when the gyrocopter he was flying crashed in Polk County on Monday afternoon, officials said.

The aircraft landed in a cotton field between Collard Valley and Wyatt roads about 1:30 p.m., Polk County police Chief Kenny Dodd told AJC.com.

It’s not clear what led to the crash. Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident, Dodd said.

A gyrocopter is an aircraft that has spinning blades at the top and resembles a helicopter, but is pushed forward by a propeller located in the back of the vehicle.

Investigators are working to identify the pilot, who is not from the area, and notify next of kin, Dodd said. No other details were released.

— Please return to AJC.com for updates.

In other news:

It's been 40 years since a crime spree began and led to the death or disappearance of dozens of Atlanta children.

About the Author

Atlanta airport flyers, staff celebrate freedom — from travel headaches

Despite hundreds of thousands flying through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Fourth of July weekend, airport staff and travelers experienced few issues.

2h ago

Buddy Carter says grandchildren safe after being at flooded Texas summer camp

U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter of St. Simons Island said his grandchildren are safe but they lost a cousin in the flash flooding from the Guadalupe River in Kerr County, Texas

2h ago

Atlanta leaders eye trails as part of solution to city’s traffic woes

The 535-mile expansion plan, known as Trails ATL, aims to make the city more walkable, bringing 10-minute access to trails for 95% of city residents by 2052.

The Latest

Credit: Gray Mollenkamp