ALTON, Illinois (Aug. 7, 2025) – A devastating accident on the Mississippi River claimed the lives of two men, including Cody Curry, a J.F. Electric employee from Ashley, Illinois. Curry, aged 37, and 35-year-old pilot Nicholas R. Fulton of Salem, Missouri, were killed when their Hughes 369D helicopter struck power lines and crashed onto a barge near the Melvin Price Lock and Dam No. 26 .
What Happened
Around 11 a.m. on Thursday, the helicopter was performing maintenance work—specifically replacing tower lighting and marker balls—as part of contracted work for Ameren when it came into contact with power lines, igniting a fatal crash . An on-site barge, reportedly carrying ethylene glycol, caught fire upon impact; fortunately, the towboat Donna F. Furlong extinguished the blaze within an hour .
The incident triggered a temporary shutdown of the river and nearby infrastructure. The U.S. Coast Guard established a restricted safety zone along the river, and traffic resumed later once the scene was cleared .
Who Were the Victims
- Nicholas R. Fulton, 35, of Salem, Missouri, was the vice president of Excel Helicopters LLC, a company he co-founded with his father .
- Michael “Cody” C. Curry, 37, was an electrical lineman employed by J.F. Electric, based in Edwardsville, Illinois, working as part of a contractor-subcontractor team .
J.F. Electric issued a statement expressing its deep sorrow and confirmed Curry’s employment, while extending condolences and offering grief support to staff . Family, friends, and colleagues speak of Fulton as a meticulous pilot and dedicated professional—both men were remembered fondly by those who knew them .
Response & Investigation
First responders from Illinois and Missouri, including fire crews and a tugboat, were on the scene immediately and fought to contain the fire . Ameren, which had contracted the maintenance work, issued condolences and pledged full cooperation with the investigation . The FAA, NTSB, and U.S. Coast Guard are leading inquiries into possible causes, including visibility of power lines, wind, and adherence to safety protocols .
Community Impact
The loss of Cody Curry and Nicholas Fulton underscores the dangers of aerial utility maintenance—a job performed daily, but not without risk. Witnesses described the crash as sudden and terrifying, noting the bravery of those who undertake such critical but hazardous work .
As the investigation continues, communities across the region are mourning, honoring the lives and sacrifices of two men whose work often goes unseen but is vital to infrastructure and safety.
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