India, Aug. 7 -- A massive helicopter crash in the Mississippi River near Alton has sparked emergency response from Missouri and Illinois crews. Videos and initial reports confirmed that the chopper collided with a barge, sparking a fireball. Now, local media reports state that the barges were carrying chemicals and flammable items.

Reports also indicate that the helicopter struck power lines before crashing into the barge, which was close to the Melvin Price Locks and Dam site.

Two people are confirmed to have died, authorities said in the first response after the crash. The Alton PD told Newsweek, "We're working an active scene and have no comments at this time" around 1:15 PM ET.

Several locals shared visuals from the scene. Thick p...