ANKARA(Sputnik) – Poor weather and not an act of terrorism caused the crash of Turkey’s military helicopter in the northeastern province of Giresun, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Tuesday.
"The helicopter crashed most likely because of poor weather conditions, there is no reference to a terrorist attack," Yildirim told reporters, specifying that the Sikorsky S70 fell 25 miles from Giresun.
Minutes earlier, Giresun Mayor Kerim Aksu updated the death toll to six personnel.
Up to 15 service members were reportedly on board the helicopter, including a brigadier major, a colonel, and two majors. They were said to be heading to regional outposts to take part in celebrations marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
