Video shows helicopter crash off Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro

GlobalPost

Dramatic video shows the moment a helicopter crashed into the surf at Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, while trying to rescue a swimmer in distress.

The video was taken from the beach by a Brazilian tourist who was among hundreds of terrified onlookers to witness the helicopter crash, the BBC reported.

"The crew were saving the lives of people who recklessly swam into the waves," an eyewitness told the BBC. "The sea has been raging yesterday and today." 

Local surfers and swimmers helped to rescue the four crew members and struggling swimmer. All made it back to shore safely, the Telegraph reported.

The rescue helicopter had reportedly suffered engine failure.

Tell us about your experience accessing The World

We want to hear your feedback so we can keep improving our website, theworld.org. Please fill out this quick survey and let us know your thoughts (your answers will be anonymous). Thanks for your time!