A helicopter that was contracted by the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) has crashed in Madera County near the Fresno County line. The crew was performing a routine aerial survey of deer populations when the crash occurred. Four people were reportedly on board; there has been no report on injuries or survivors at this time.

The crash occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m.  DFG is responding to the scene, along with U.S. Forest Service, the Madera County Sheriff's Office and the Federal Aviation Administration. An investigation is under way, no cause for the crash has been determined.

No further details about the crash are known at this time.

DFG has grounded all helicopter surveys and captures until further notice.