**Four Killed in Helicopter Crash Near Montreal**
Sainte-Brigide-d'Iberville, Quebec – A tragic helicopter crash claimed the lives of four individuals on Saturday afternoon in a small town located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Montreal. The incident occurred shortly after 2:30 PM local time, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Upon arrival at the crash site in Sainte-Brigide-d'Iberville, authorities discovered the helicopter engulfed in flames. Despite the rapid response, all four occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims have not yet been publicly identified, and officials have indicated that this identification process may take several days.
The helicopter involved in the crash appears to be a private aircraft, according to Sergeant Audrey-Anne Bilodeau of Quebec's provincial police. The crash site is situated near Rang des Écossais road, adjacent to Highway 10, an area that has been cordoned off for investigation.
The Sûreté du Québec's Major Crime Unit is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. They are collaborating with crime scene technicians and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada to gather evidence and determine the cause of the accident.
Emergency services received an emergency call reporting a helicopter in distress, which may have led to the crash and subsequent fire. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control approximately one hour after their arrival, although emergency personnel continued to work at the site until late into the evening.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to release more information regarding the victims and the circumstances of the crash. The community of Sainte-Brigide-d'Iberville is in shock as they come to terms with the loss of life in this tragic incident.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.