American basketball legend Kobe Bryant has died after the helicopter he was travelling in crashed into a hillside in Calabasas, California on Sunday afternoon, January 26.

The 41-year-old retired athlete was among five people on board when the aircraft reportedly caught fire and spiralled into the rocky hills, according to .US media outlet TMZ

The pilot, as well as the other three occupants, all perished, Los Angeles County police reported.

Deputies on scene with — LASD Lost Hills Stn. (@LHSLASD)

Deputies on scene with — LASD Lost Hills Stn. (@LHSLASD) @LACOFD regarding aircraft crash. https://t.co/o2xkFluzQm pic.twitter.com/BPGfKS6nFtJanuary 26, 2020

TMZ further reported that Kobe has famously used a helicopter to travel for years – dating back to when he played for the Los Angeles Lakers.

“He was known for commuting from Newport

Beach, CA to the STAPLES Center in DTLA in his Sikorsky S-76 chopper,” TMZ

wrote.

Five people confirmed deceased, no survivors in — LA County Sheriffs (@LASDHQ)

Five people confirmed deceased, no survivors in — LA County Sheriffs (@LASDHQ) #Calabasas helicopter crash. #LASD #Malibu deputies remain with #LA County Fire personnel. Investigation ongoing. Avoid the area until further notice.January 26, 2020

The late Bryant, also known as the Black Mamba, is survived by his wife Vanessa, and their four daughters Gianna, Natalia, Bianca and newborn Capri.