NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Dawson County, GA, June 24, 2026. — Rain and possible thunderstorms were affecting the area when a helicopter carrying a newlywed couple crashed in Dawson County last month, killing the groom and the pilot, according to a preliminary report released by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The crash occurred on the evening of May 29 in the Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area after a helicopter departed a wedding venue in Dawsonville. On board were newlyweds Dave Fiji and Jesni Fiji, along with pilot Nikhil Nargundkar.
Dave Fiji and Nargundkar were killed in the crash. Jesni Fiji survived and was hospitalized with injuries.
According to the NTSB’s preliminary findings, National Weather Service radar data showed moderate rain over the crash site at the time of the accident. Investigators also noted that a thunderstorm advisory had been issued for the area.
The helicopter, a Robinson R66, struck trees and terrain in a heavily wooded section of the forest, the report said. Investigators found no evidence of a mechanical failure prior to impact.
“The examination of the airframe and engine revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation,” the NTSB stated in its report.
The agency said the wreckage pattern was consistent with the aircraft colliding with tall trees before crashing to the ground.
The preliminary report does not determine the cause of the crash. NTSB investigations often take months, and a final report will ultimately identify the probable cause after investigators complete their review of weather conditions, flight operations, pilot actions, and other factors.
Earlier reports indicated that rain, low visibility, and stormy weather were present in Dawson County on the night of the crash. The helicopter operator, Prestige Helicopters, said the pilot was familiar with the route and had flown it numerous times.
The fatal crash drew widespread attention in the Indian American community because both the pilot and passengers were members of the community and the flight took place shortly after the couple’s wedding celebration.
The NTSB’s findings suggest that adverse weather conditions may have played a role in the accident, though investigators have not reached any final conclusions.
Cover photo courtesy: Jaison Mathew/Facebook.
