Search launched near Greek island after helicopter crash

ATHENS, Greece (AP) - A private helicopter carrying three people crashed Tuesday near a Greek island popular with vacationers and summer home owners after reportedly hitting electrical wires.

Coast guard vessels and a helicopter were involved in a search-and-rescue effort following the crash in shallow water near the main port of Poros, some 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Athens.

Authorities said the helicopter had taken off from mainland area near Poros and had been due to land at Athens International Airport.

"According to the initial information we have on the helicopter, three people were on board, a Greek (pilot) and two foreign passengers," Coast Guard spokesman Nikos Lagadianos said. "Divers are already searching the site but they have not yet reached the cockpit."

The spokesman did not comment on local reports that the helicopter had hit electrical wires.

The crash triggered a power outage on the island, local officials said.

Authorities had initially reported that the helicopter had left Athens but later clarified that it had been heading toward the Greek capital.