KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF/AP) — The co-founder of Clayton Automobiles and Clayton Homes died after a helicopter crashed into the Tennessee River, according to WVLT.
CBS affiliate WVLT reported that Joe Clayton, co-founder of Clayton Automobiles and Clayton Homes, died in the crash on Monday night. His brother survived, along with their grandson and a friend.
A Knoxville Fire Department spokesman says the three escaped the wreckage and were rescued by a pontoon boat on the river. They refused medical treatment. The agency said nearby residents called authorities after the crash happened around 7:40 p.m.
A Federal Aviation Administration spokeswoman said his body was recovered around 9:45 p.m. The National Transportation Safety Board is determining the cause of the crash.
