Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, daughter Gianna, reportedly die in helicopter crash
Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna Maria Onore, have reportedly died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California on Sunday morning.
According to TMZ.com, Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant has died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California earlier this morning.
According to TMZ, Bryant was traveling with at least three other people in his private helicopter, a Sikorsky S-76. Five people have been confirmed dead, but his wife, Vanessa Bryant, was not one of the people on the helicopter.
Sadly, one of the people who were confirmed to be on the plane was his daughter Gianna, who was 13 years old. Kobe’s reps confirmed the news with TMZ. They were on the way to the Mamba Academy in Thousand Oaks, California.
Another player and parent were also on the helicopter with them.
Sources: Kobe Bryant was on his way to a travel basketball game with his daughter Gianna when the helicopter crashed. Those aboard the helicopter also included another player and parent.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 26, 2020
The LA County Sheriff’s Department Headquarters also confirmed that there were five people dead in the crash.
Five people confirmed deceased, no survivors in #Calabasas helicopter crash. #LASD #Malibu deputies remain with #LA County Fire personnel. Investigation ongoing.
— LA County Sheriffs (@LASDHQ) January 26, 2020
Avoid the area until further notice.
The Los Angeles Times shared some more information about what has happened. According to them, the helicopter crashed and burst into flames.
A brush fire was ignited as a result, making it difficult for emergency personnel and firefighters to get to the downed aircraft. The fire was contained to the area as there were no homes or roadways impacted.
Bryant had been using helicopters to travel for quite a while. He used to travel from his home in Newport Beach to the Staples Center when he was a player.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN also confirmed the reports that Bryant had passed away.
Kobe Bryant is among those dead in a helicopter crash outside Los Angeles, a source confirms to ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 26, 2020
Bryant is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all-time. The Lakers retired both his No. 8 and No. 24 jerseys.
Despite how great he was on the court, off the court he was becoming just as accomplished in his post-basketball career. Bryant is an author and Oscar winner, as his short film, “Dear Basketball” took home the award in 2018.
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As the story develops, we will keep updating. Until then, our prayers and thoughts are with the Bryant family, friends and anyone who is impacted by this monumental loss.