Former Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant has died in a helicopter crash at the age of 41.

Bryant, who has been survived by his wife Vanessa and their four daughters, was travelling with at least four other people in his private helicopter on Sunday morning, according to TMZ.

The report claims that a fire broke out at some stage during the flight, although it is unclear what exactly caused the crash just outside of Calabasas, California.

Meanwhile, it is alleged that eyewitnesses heard the helicopter's engine sputtering before it eventually went down at around 10am on Sunday morning.

Bryant is widely considered to be one of the best NBA players of all time, turning out for the Lakers during the entirety of his 20-year career, making 18 All-Star teams and winning five championships in the process.

The shooting guard also helped the USA win gold medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.