LAFOURCHE PARISH, LA — A devastating helicopter crash in a sugarcane field near Thibodaux, Louisiana, on the morning of July 23, 2025, claimed the life of Stanley Hebert, Jr., a skilled and respected pilot from Abbeville in Vermilion Parish. The tragic incident has left local communities and the aviation industry grappling with grief as authorities work to uncover the cause of the crash.
The crash occurred around 6:39 a.m. in a remote cane field off Louisiana Highway 308, approximately one mile from the road on private property near Laurel Valley Road. The helicopter, identified as a Bell 206L-1 commonly used for agricultural work, was engaged in crop dusting when it reportedly struck a power line, leading to the catastrophic crash. The impact left the aircraft heavily damaged, with debris scattered across the field. Emergency responders, including the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, fire rescue units, and medical personnel, arrived promptly but pronounced Hebert, the sole occupant, deceased at the scene.
Stanley Hebert, Jr. was a seasoned pilot known for his professionalism and dedication to the aviation and agricultural sectors. Colleagues and friends described him as a meticulous and safety-conscious individual whose expertise earned him widespread respect. “Stanley was a true professional,” said a fellow pilot. “His loss is felt deeply by everyone who knew him and worked with him.” Hebert was employed by JBI, a Vermilion Parish-based company, and his contributions to the local aviation community were significant.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a joint investigation to determine the factors contributing to the crash. Preliminary reports suggest the helicopter may have collided with a utility line, but investigators are also examining potential mechanical issues, weather conditions, and other variables. An NTSB investigator arrived at the scene on July 23 to document the wreckage and begin the process of evidence collection. The agency has stated that a preliminary report will be available within 30 days, though a comprehensive investigation could take months to complete.
The crash site, located in a rural agricultural area, posed challenges for first responders due to its distance from the highway and the nature of the terrain. Despite these obstacles, authorities secured the area to ensure public safety and facilitate the investigation. Photographs from the scene, shared by local media, depict the wreckage of the helicopter amidst the cane field, underscoring the severity of the incident.
In the wake of the tragedy, communities in Lafourche and Vermilion Parishes have rallied to support the Hebert family. Tributes have poured in, with many highlighting Stanley’s warmth, integrity, and passion for flying. Plans for a memorial service to honor his life are in development, with details to be announced soon.
As the investigation continues, aviation experts stress the importance of analyzing such incidents to enhance safety protocols and prevent future tragedies. The loss of Stanley Hebert, Jr. has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy as a skilled pilot, devoted family man, and cherished community member will endure.
May Stanley Hebert, Jr. rest in peace, and may his loved ones find solace and strength in the days ahead.
