What evidence from the Smithsonian Institution supports the bird strike theory?

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Smithsonian Institution Report Details Bird Strike Impact on Helicopter Crash

A report from the Smithsonian Institution's Division of Birds, submitted to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on December 11, 2025, provides key evidence supporting the theory of a bird strike in the fatal helicopter crash. The document indicates that a flock of mixed-species geese made contact with the aircraft's horizontal stabilizer and rotor blades. This finding is further corroborated by an eyewitness who observed approximately 20 geese taking flight and moving towards the river shortly before a loud noise was heard, aligning with the timeline of the incident.
Smithsonian Report on Bird Impact

The Smithsonian Institution's findings, released by the NTSB, specifically state that a "mixed-species flock of geese... impacted the horizontal stabilizer and rotor blades." This direct observation details the physical interaction between the birds and critical components of the helicopter. The report was part of over 2,000 pages of factual materials released by the NTSB concerning the crash.
Eyewitness Account Corroborates Bird Presence

An eyewitness account provided crucial contextual information, noting the presence of geese in the immediate vicinity prior to the crash. This individual reported seeing about 20 geese take flight and head towards the river just minutes before a loud bang was heard. This observation serves to strengthen the likelihood that the geese mentioned in the Smithsonian report were indeed present and active in the area at the time of the incident.
Physical Evidence Found on Wreckage

In addition to the reports, physical evidence recovered from the helicopter wreckage also supports the bird strike theory. The remains of several geese were found on the aircraft, according to information published by the NTSB. This tangible evidence directly links avian life to the crashed helicopter, complementing the findings from the Smithsonian report and the eyewitness testimony.

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What evidence from the Smithsonian Institution supports the bird strike theory?

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