I read something earlier that quoted an aviation “expert” as saying that mechanical failure was unlikely, in large part because it was a twin engine copter.
I am not a pilot, but work in the helicopter industry. I do not believe it was engine failure based on the impact of the aircraft and how there was basically nothing left. Also pilots can perform autorotation during engine failure.
I actually got to go up with a pilot a few weeks ago and I sat in the co-pilot seat. He let me take over at 3000 feet for a few minutes and it was incredible and extremely challenging. When auto pilot is off, you literally have to use both hands and both feet to control the aircraft. Piloting a helicopter is not easy.
based on the ATC recording and him flying with SVFR and not IFR I think it was pilot error that he flew straight into the hill.
Kobe and everyone onboard other than the pilot may have not even known they were crashing until impact.