Image via PHILIPPE LOPEZ/AFP via Getty Images.
UPDATE, January 26, 6:48 p.m.: While initial reports claimed a total of 5 people died in the helicopter crash, Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva confirmed that number to be 9 during a news conference, according to The Los Angeles Times. Villanueva would not confirm the identities of the other seven passengers until all the next of kin had been notified.
UPDATE, January 26, 4:10 p.m.: Reports have confirmed that Bryant's 13-year-old daughter Gianna Maria-Onore was among the five people killed in this morning's helicopter crash, reps for Byant told TMZ Sports. They were reportedly on their way to Bryant's Mamba Academy for basketball practice when the crash happened.
Original story: Basketball legend Kobe Bryant was reportedly killed in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California on Sunday morning, according to TMZ.
Bryant was traveling with four other people in his private helicopter when the accident occurred. None of the 5 people on board survived the crash, which took place around 10 a.m., according to The Los Angeles Times. The publication was also able to confirm that the chopper sparked a bush fire, making initial rescue attempts difficult. The crash site is currently under investigation.
Widely considered the greatest NBA player of all time, he retired in 2016 after playing for the Los Angeles Lakers throughout the entirety of his 20-year career, during which he won five championships and played in 18 All-Star Games.