How many parachutists were killed in the crash? [originaltext] The helicopter

The helicopter crash on Saturday near Mannheim is the worst in German history. 44 persons died when a U. S. Army helicopter carrying sports parachutists crashed in a ball of flame on a high way near the town’s airport. Witnesses say the craft lost a rotor blade. Killed in the crash were 39 parachutists from four countries Germany, Britain, France and the United States, and five American military crewmen. However, there is still some disputes over the exact number of persons aboard the helicopter. Several investigations have begun into the cause of the crash. The helicopter was taking the skydivers to an international air-show at Mannheim to celebrate the city’s 375th anniversary. A civilian pilot who was to take part in the show said the majority of people simply went home in complete silence.