04/06/2026
GROOM KILLED IN POST-WEDDING HELICOPTER CRASH;
DAWSON COUNTY, GEORGIA
What was supposed to be the beautiful beginning of a lifelong journey turned into an unimaginable tragedy Friday night when a helicopter carrying a newlywed couple crashed in a densely wooded area of Dawson County, Georgia.
The groom, 25-year-old Dave Fiji, and the aircraft's pilot tragically lost their lives in the accident. The bride survived the impact and was hospitalized with injuries, though officials note she is expected to be released soon.
The couple had just departed their wedding reception in a Robinson R-66 helicopter, bound for the Peachtree-DeKalb Airport, where they planned to catch a flight for their honeymoon.
According to the groom’s father, George Fiji, his son was a commercial airline pilot for Delta Air Lines. Before taking off, Dave had reportedly expressed concern about the challenging weather conditions, which included heavy rain, thick fog, and low visibility.
Emergency crews faced a difficult recovery operation, utilizing off-road vehicles and chainsaws to cut through the dense forest to reach the wreckage just after 10:00 PM.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. The identity of the pilot has not yet been publicly released.
A Message of Sympathy :
"Our hearts are heavy as we report on this profound tragedy.
we extend our deepest, most sincere condolences to the Fiji family, the family of the pilot, and all the loved ones grieving this sudden and catastrophic loss.
To the young bride, we send our thoughts of strength, healing, and comfort as she navigates an unimaginable heartbreak.
May those we lost rest in eternal peace, and may their families find solace in the arms of their community during this darkest hour.
