Russian chopper crash in Dagestan: Video shows moment helicopter splits into two and crashes - Watch

At least five people were killed and three others left injured after a Russian Ka-226 helicopter crashed in the North Caucasus republic of Dagestan on November 7, authorities said.

The victims included four employees of the Kizlyar Electromechanical Plant (KEMZ). Video of the incident, which is now going viral on social media, shows the crash unfolding as the helicopter clips a pier while attempting to land, damaging its tail.The pilot then pulls up with the tail section dangling and briefly lands in shallow water. Instead of shutting down the engine, he lifts off again and flies out over the sea, gaining altitude before the final crash.

The helicopter crashed near the village of Achi-Su in Russia’s Republic of Dagestan, along the Caspian Sea, striking an unoccupied private house that was destroyed in the ensuing fire, according to state-run news agency TASS, reports the Moscow Times. The cause of the crash remains unknown. Russia’s federal aviation agency, Rosaviatsia, has classified the incident as a “disaster” and announced that it will take part in the official investigation.

KEMZ, a Russian defense manufacturer specializing in aviation equipment, released the names of those killed in the crash. Among the victims were four KEMZ employees, including the plant’s deputy general director for construction and transport support.The Ka-226 flight mechanic also died in the accident, while two others were wounded.KEMZ has been sanctioned by the United States for its role in supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine. The company develops and produces ground control and diagnostic systems, as well as other equipment used primarily in Sukhoi and MiG aircraft, as cited by the Kyiv Independent.