Nine dead from helicopter crash

Kobe Bryant’s private helicopter crashes into Calabasas hillside Sunday morning

Nick Harvey/Talon

Bryant fans leave flowers and other mementos on Mamba Sports Academy’s doorstep in memory of those lost in the helicopter crash last Sunday. Many local athletes trained at Mamba which was opened Bryant and partners in 2018.

Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna Bryant were two of nine left dead after Byrant’s helicopter crashed on Sunday morning. The helicopter was on its way to the Camarillo Airport. From the airport, the group was planning to go to a basketball tournament held at Mamba Sports Academy in Newbury Park.

John Altobelli, his wife Keri Altobelli and daughter Alyssa Altobelli were also confirmed to be in the helicopter.

Christina Mauser, who coached Gianna’s team alongside Kobe, was on the aircraft as well.

Sarah Chester and her daughter Payton Chester were also confirmed to be on the aircraft. The pilot, Ara Zobayan, lost his life in the crash.

At this time, it is unknown what caused the helicopter to collide with the Calabasas hillside.