The family of an 11-year-old boy injured in the Oct. 11 helicopter crash in Huntington Beach has identified him as Oliver Holland, describing him as “the smartest, funniest boy” they know as he recovers from serious injuries.
Oliver was struck when a helicopter suddenly dropped from the sky and crashed near the Waterfront Beach Resort along Pacific Coast Highway, according to officials and video obtained by KTLA, injuring five people. Video from the scene shows bystanders rushing to help the boy, who appeared trapped beneath the aircraft moments after impact.
His sister, Madeline, confirmed his identity in a verified GoFundMe post, writing that Oliver underwent surgery for a collapsed lung and a brain bleed. “Oliver was enjoying a day at the beach when suddenly a helicopter malfunctioned and came crashing down on him,” she wrote. “We are praying for a safe recovery.”
Madeline said both of Oliver’s parents have taken leave from work to support him and emphasized that the family is not seeking any type of payout, only help covering medical expenses. “Please be kind — my family is truly hurting and so am I,” she added…