FAA: Helicopter crashes in Columbia County

By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

DAYTON, Washington – The Federal Aviation Administration reports a Bell 206B helicopter crashed near Dayton around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday.

“Only the pilot was on board,” FAA Public Affairs Specialist Steven Kulm said.

Kulm added that the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will conduct an investigation.

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Civil Deputy Sarah Boudrieau said the scene is near South Touchet Road outside of Dayton. She explained the helicopter crash caused a power outage in the area.

Due to no electricity, an emergency order was issued closing the Columbia County offices at the courthouse earlier in the day. The courthouse will reopen tomorrow (Thursday) at 8:30 a.m. Power at the courthouse has since been restored.

This is a developing story. We will update it as more information is released.

Photo via Acadia Murphy