"WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN IT JUST SHUT DOWN, I DON'T BELIEVE THAT IT COULD BE NOTHING BUT MECHANICAL TROUBLE"
Your information is not correct. It did not just shut down....The engine pitch will change as power is being added or taken away. If the pilot is adding power or lowering the collective the engine pitch (sound) may have been changing. There are a number of things that can cause loss of control. Being a little more familiar with the operation of a helicopter may help you understand. I would suggest a Google search for conditions known as "settling with power" and "loss of tail rotor effectivness" (AKA "LTE"). As you may find out those conditions can occur without a mechanical failure.
"THERE WERE NO LINES AROUND FOR HIM TO GET INTO"
Yes there were powerlines on the north side. Again, Google earth may help you get the information before you post.... I am asking everyone to be careful and respectful. please do not represent opinions as facts.
"I read the report but not sure I understand what it is saying. Can somebody explain it to me."
Keep in mind that its still early. The report indicates that they suspect the main rotor blades struck the tail boom near the rear which may have caused seperation of the tail rotor and rear vertical fin. The final report will conclude at what point this may have happened. It would be understandable how this could happen if the pilot was struggling to regain control. Also remember this would create a sound similar to a "pop" and maybe even sparks which was indicated by our friends on the ground. That is why it is important to let them finish the investigation before the assumption is made that it was mechanical failure.
The report also says that visual flight rules were applied. The visibility was 5 miles and mist (light fog or haze). The wind was calm. The dew point and temp were within one point which would mean that mist would be expected. In this case it doesnt mean the same as light rain as most of us use the term. Basicly, they were operating within our weather minimums. "No flight plan was filed" just means that they didnt have a flight plan on file....Under part 91 and VFR they did not have to file an IFR plan. The preliminary report is very basic and vague. The final report will have the answers.....
Bruce Carson
Flight Paramedic supervisor
Air Evac 16