MONTREAL — On Saturday, Quebec provincial police initiated a search operation following a helicopter crash in northeastern Quebec that left four individuals unaccounted for. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Friday near Natashquan, Quebec, which is situated over 1,000 kilometers northeast of Montreal.

Authorities reported that five people were on board the aircraft, which was operated by Airmedic, a private air medical transport company. Among them, one woman was rescued and transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. As the search continued on Saturday morning, the whereabouts of the other four individuals remained unknown.

Raphaele Bourgault, a spokesperson for Airmedic based in Longueuil, Quebec, confirmed that the helicopter involved in the accident was part of the company's fleet. Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the crash site, and Bourgault emphasized that Airmedic staff are collaborating closely with authorities and first responders to manage the situation effectively. She reassured that the company would provide further information as soon as it was confirmed and expressed the company's concern for those affected by the incident.

Airmedic specializes in air medical transport services and operates a fleet that includes both planes and helicopters across Canada. In response to the crash, a command post has been established, with specialized search teams on-site capable of conducting ground, aerial, and water searches.

The Canadian Armed Forces have also been called upon for assistance in the ongoing search operations. Provincial police confirmed that the Transportation Safety Board of Canada has been notified of the helicopter crash and will conduct an investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police investigators will work in coordination with the board during this inquiry.

This incident has raised concerns about safety standards and protocols within the air medical transport sector, emphasizing the importance of rapid response and effective management during emergencies. The ongoing search efforts not only underscore the dedication of first responders but also highlight the challenges faced in remote areas where such incidents occur.

As authorities continue their search for the missing individuals, the hope remains that they will be found safely. The community and family members of those on board are anxiously waiting for updates, emphasizing the human side of this tragic situation.