Feature Story

Seanoa Alefaio

January 26, 2020 the whole world paused as social media, television, and more was going off from the devastating, shocking, and heartbreaking news of the legendary Kobe Bryant ́s passing. The Los Angeles Lakers Icon and five-time NBA Champion Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. Not only did we hear about this devastating news but few minutes later they found out that his 13 year old daughter, Gianna Bryant, also passed away in this crash. The two plus seven others died in this crash as well. They were on their way to Gianna Bryantś basketball game at Mamba Sports Academy in Thousands Oaks, California. John Altobelli, a champion baseball coach at Orange Coast College was killed in this crash as well. Altobelli ́s wife, Keri, and daughter Alyssa also passed away in the crash. Other victims included Christina Mauser, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester, and Ara Zobayan. 

The helicopter fell at a rate of about 23 miles per hour and slammed into the hill in a “high-energy impact crash,” according to the N.T.S.B. It was also traveling forward at about 152 miles per hour just before it crashed, according to radar data.

It is not clear why the helicopter fell at such a quick rate, which experts said was too fast for a standard landing. The aircraft slammed into the hillside at 1,085 feet after climbing to 2,300 feet; it may have missed clearing the top of the hill by 20 to 30 feet.

Kobe Bryant and his Daughter Gianna Bryant, as well as the others that were involved, will be truly missed. The world hears their names now. The world screams their name now. The world will never let the legacy go unknown. The footprints they left on the earth will forever be acknowledged and noticed. Mamba forever #24 #8 #2.