Ctsmith: Here is a bit of "good news" in this horribly tragic event!
Apparently 2 (two) mountain bikers were narrowly missed by the crashing helicopter as it crashed and turned into a ball of fire!
According to the new article I am linking to the bikers were missed by just 200 feet and then they approached the helicopter inferno and took the enclosed picture!
Looking at the picture I am sure the 9 (nine) souls on board the helicopter did NOT suffer for more than an instant - if that is any solace?

Link: https://nypost.com/2020/01/28/pictures-show-kobe-bryants-helicopter-in-ball-of-fire/

Sad and tragic.
Hold into the wind
VarmintGuy