SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) – A medical helicopter crashed on a highway in Sacramento on Monday evening, leading to the closure of the eastbound lanes of Highway 50, as confirmed by officials. The incident occurred shortly after 7 p.m., according to Officer Mike Carrillo, a spokesperson for the Valley Division of the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

Visuals shared online displayed a lengthy traffic backup behind the downed helicopter, indicating significant disruption for drivers in the area. The exact number of individuals on board the helicopter at the time of the crash, as well as any potential injuries, remains unclear at this moment.

The cause of the helicopter crash is currently under investigation, with multiple agencies, including emergency responders and the California Highway Patrol, actively working at the scene. Officer Carrillo stated that residents should prepare for ongoing delays along the highway and consider using alternate routes to avoid the situation.

As a precaution, law enforcement has requested that the public refrain from entering the area to allow emergency crews to operate safely and effectively. Updates regarding the investigation and any further details about the crash are anticipated as authorities continue their work.