Story highlights The helicopter was returning to a New Jersey airport at the time

The pilot was also killed

(CNN) Troy Gentry, of country duo Montgomery Gentry, has died following a helicopter crash in New Jersey, according to a statement posted on the group's official site. He was 50.

"Troy Gentry's family wishes to acknowledge all of the kind thoughts and prayers, and asks for privacy at this time," the statement read in part.

The crash took place before 1 p.m. ET in Medford, according to the statement. The helicopter's pilot also was killed, authorities said.

Montgomery Gentry was scheduled to perform Friday night at the Flying W Airport & Resort in Medford.

Medford police said first responders received news of a helicopter in distress that was returning to the Flying W Airport.

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