NBA legend and sporting superstar Kobe Bryant has died in a helicopter crash aged just 41.
The LA Lakers icon was travelling with three others in a private aircraft when it came down in Calabasas near LA, California.
NBA legend Kobe Bryant has been killed in a helicopter crash
Smoke rises above the scene of the crash
It is understood up to FIVE people have died in the crash, with nobody on board surviving.
An investigation into the incident – which happened on Sunday morning – is underway.
According to reports, the helicopter went up in a ball of fire after hitting the ground.
He is survived by his wife Vanessa and their four daughters, who are thought to have not been on board.
His shock death sparked an outpouring of grief from the basketball world.
Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic tweeting: “NO PLEASE, I’m shaking this can’t be true please.”
Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love said: “Please no. Please God no. It can’t be true.”
Emergency crews were rushed to the scene of the tragedy