Deputy Honored for Heroic Response to Helicopter Crash in Pompano Beach

POMPANO BEACH, FLA. – In a remarkable display of courage, Deputy Michell Machado of the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) was honored at a recent award ceremony for his swift and brave actions in response to a helicopter crash. The incident occurred on August 28, 2023, when Machado witnessed a BSO helicopter plummet into an apartment building near Atlantic Boulevard and Dixie Highway while he was on duty.

Bravery in the Face of Danger

During the ceremony held in Davie, officials presented Deputy Machado with an award and shared previously unreleased body camera footage that captured the terrifying moments of the incident. “It felt like a scene out of a movie. I never imagined a helicopter spinning out of control like that,” Machado said in a pre-recorded interview displayed at the event.

The Crash and Immediate Response

As the helicopter descended, dark smoke enveloped the sky, signaling the impending disaster. Machado, undeterred by the danger, raced to the crash site, abandoning his motorcycle, and rushed into the apartment building to rescue potential victims. His body camera recorded the critical moments as he shouted for anyone inside to respond.

“Everybody out! Is anybody home? Hello!” he called out, desperately seeking answers.

Upon entering the first apartment adjacent to the crash, Machado heard faint cries for help. Struggling to access the trapped individuals, he attempted to break a window with his baton, only to discover it was impenetrable.

Explosion and Aftermath

Just as he pondered how to enter the apartment, a catastrophic explosion occurred, resulting from the helicopter wreckage igniting. The blast sent Machado reeling outside the apartment door. Tragically, the explosion resulted in the deaths of BSO Fire Rescue Captain Terryson Jackson and resident Lurean Wheaton, who was inside her home at the time.

Despite the chaos, Machado ran to a neighboring apartment, managing to help two residents, Taran Van-Diver and his brother, escape from the burning building. As he assisted in evacuating others, shrapnel from the explosion damaged his helmet, underscoring the perilous nature of his actions.

A Testimony to Duty

Upon accepting his award, Machado reflected on the incident, stating, “But at the end of the day, we were just doing our job.” His quick thinking and bravery undoubtedly saved lives on that fateful day, as two occupants aboard the helicopter survived the crash.

Recognition of Bravery

The award ceremony not only celebrated Machado’s heroism but also recognized the courage of several other deputies and employees within the sheriff’s office for their various acts of bravery. Their commitment to service shines as a testament to the values upheld by law enforcement.