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Rockledge, FL – A helicopter crash on a baseball field in Rockledge left two people seriously injured on Sunday morning, including a prominent local neurologist and his girlfriend, authorities reported.

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The incident occurred around 10:20 a.m. on April 6, 2025, when a private helicopter, piloted by Dr. Wasim Niazi, crashed onto the McKnight Family Sports Complex in Rockledge, Brevard County. According to a text message conversation provided by a family friend, Dr. Niazi was not merely a passenger but the pilot of the aircraft. The helicopter was carrying three occupants, including Dr. Niazi and his girlfriend, Ashley. Two of them—Dr. Niazi, a well-known neurologist and owner of the River Fly In Condos in Merritt Island, and Ashley—were airlifted to trauma centers with serious injuries, including fractures and lacerations. The FAA reports that there were 3 occupants, however witnesses state that there were only two. The identity and condition of the third occupant have not been released.

Police and witnesses reported that the helicopter, which took off from Merritt Island, may have encountered mechanical difficulties before the crash. Corporal Alice Dibisae Deakins with the Rockledge Police Department stated, “Witnesses reported possible engine problems with the helicopter. They witnessed it was kind of struggling.” The flight’s intended destination remains undisclosed.

Good Samaritans and emergency responders quickly extracted the occupants from the wreckage. According to updates received from a family friend, Dr. Niazi and Ashley are expected to recover despite their injuries, which has brought relief to their loved ones and the community.

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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating to determine the crash’s cause. Police are seeking public assistance, asking anyone with photos or videos of the incident to come forward.

This tragic event has stunned the local community, and further updates are anticipated as the investigation progresses.

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Dr. Wasim Niazi: A Profound Neurologist and Aviation Enthusiast

Dr. Wasim Niazi is a highly regarded neurologist in Brevard County with over two decades of experience in the medical field. Specializing in neurodegenerative diseases, he has made significant contributions to neurology through his research and patient care. His work has been published in numerous medical journals, earning him recognition as a leader in his field. Colleagues describe him as compassionate and innovative, often going above and beyond to improve the quality of life for his patients. His dual expertise as a pilot and physician highlights his multifaceted talents, though this crash has underscored the risks of his adventurous pursuits.

The River Fly In Condos: A Milestone in Merritt Island

Beyond medicine, Dr. Niazi is an accomplished entrepreneur. He recently celebrated the opening of the River Fly In Condos, a luxury residential development in Merritt Island tailored to aviation enthusiasts. The condos, which blend modern design with practical features, include private hangars and direct runway access—unique amenities that have drawn attention from buyers nationwide. The project reflects Dr. Niazi’s passion for aviation and his vision for a community where residents can seamlessly integrate their love of flying into their lifestyle. The recent launch of this development marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to excel in both medicine and real estate.

The text message from a family friend noted that Dr. Niazi is the owner of the “River Fly In,” aligning with his condo venture and suggesting it may serve as a hub for his aviation activities.

The crash has left the Brevard County community in shock, but the news of Dr. Niazi and Ashley’s expected recovery has sparked hope. Friends, patients, and colleagues eagerly await his return to both the medical field and his entrepreneurial endeavors. As a figure known for resilience and innovation, Dr. Niazi’s recovery will likely inspire those around him, much as his career has done for years.

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