Japanese hiker killed by helicopter sent to save him

The Yamanashi Prefecture is surrounded by many of the highest mountains in Japan and is a popular area for hikers. Photo / 123RF

A hiker who called for an air rescue on a Japanese mountain after hurting his ankle is thought to have been crushed to death by rocks dislodged by the helicopter sent to save him.

The man, identified only as being in his 40s and from Yokohoma, was in the mountainous area of Yamanashi Prefecture when he injured himself on Saturday.

Local police said the force of the chopper's propeller caused trees and stones to fall down below, landing on the man and killing him.

The failed rescue is now being investigated by police officers, according to the Japan Times.

Emergency services were alerted at Saturday lunchtime and the man's climbing partner guided them to him.

A police officer made his way down to the man, who had hurt his left ankle, and the helicopter hovered above.

Stones and trees also fell on the officer, who managed to survive the ordeal.

Koichi Tsuruta of the Yamanashi Prefectural Police said it was regrettable the man passed away and that the force was investigating before making any safety alterations.