(Image source from: The Telegraph)

A chopper crashed into a townhouse complex in Williamsburg, Virginia on Sunday, killing at least one person and the building ripped apart and ramshackle by fire, local media said.

The incident took place in the state's southeast and not far from Norfolk, which is the place to a naval facility which assists the United States Navy's, Atlantic Fleet.

The Daily Press newspaper quoted Virginia State Police as saying there was "one confirmed fatality within the residential structure."

AFP could not instantly reach the police for the statement.

WAVY-TV displayed images of the low-rise residential complex, with much of its roof sheared off, exposing a gaping hole in the construction.

The station quoted a witness as saying he heard a "big explosion," while else reported a helicopter flying debased before the incident.

Troopers say they are working with other officials to locate and identify the pilot of the aircraft.

By Sowmya Sangam