The Los Angeles Sheriff's office confirms there were nine fatalities in the helicopter crash Sunday morning. Earlier reports said there five. Sheriff Alex Villanueva would not confirm the identities of those killed saying they are awaiting confirmation from the coroner's office and that "wide speculation of who was onboard the helicopter is wholly inappropriate." Villanueva said once the confirmations are completed and the families are notified, he would make that information public.
Shocking news coming out of Southern California miltple sources are confriming Kobe Bryant is dead. TMZ and other sources are reporting the basketball legend was on his private helicopter when it crashed this morning in the hills above Calabasas. His 13-year old daughter, Gianna --aka-- Gigi, was also among the 5 people killed in the crash. The crash sparked a fire and by the time crews arrived there were no survivors. Officials say five people were killed. Bryant is known for commuting by helicopter. The 41-year-old is considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time. He's survived by his wife and now, three daughters including a seven-month-old baby.
Bryant spent his entire 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, winning five NBA championships. It was just Saturday, LeBron James surpassed Bryant's all-time scoring record during the Lakers' game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Bryant tweeted at James congratulating him on beating his record.