Country music star Troy Gentry has been killed in a helicopter crash in New Jersey. Gentry was one-half of the popular duo Montgomery Gentry.
He and one other person were killed in the crash. The name of the other victim was not available.
The crash happened around 1:30 p.m. Friday near Lumberton in Burlington County, New Jersey.
Philadelphia CBS affiliate KYW-TV reported the crash happened at the Flying W Airport.
According to their site, Montgomery Gentry was scheduled to perform Friday night at the airport resort.
Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration said the Schweitzer 269 helicopter crashed in a wooded area off the end of a runway.
Several emergency crews responded to the scene of the crash. A tarp was covering the wreckage.
Gentry was a native of Kentucky. He and Eddie Montgomery began performing together in the 1990s with Montgomery’s brother, John Michael Montgomery. The well-known due formed their band in 1999.
In 2000, the band won the AMA Award for Favorite New Country Artist, the ACM Award for Top New Vocal Duo or Group and the CMA Award for Vocal Duo of the Year. The duo had several additional nominations.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/Pbm60ZgUwT
— CMA Country Music (@CountryMusic) September 8, 2017
Both Montgomery and Troy were members of the Grand Ole Opry. Opry officials sent their condolences to his family and friends.
We are absolutely heartbroken over the passing of #Opry Member Troy Gentry. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/sNK8rFl7UV
— Grand Ole Opry (@opry) September 8, 2017
