Three Dead After News Helicopter Crashes in Los Angeles

A routine assignment over Los Angeles ended in tragedy Tuesday night when a helicopter covering a deadly bus crash went down in Chatsworth, killing a journalist, the pilot and a person on the ground, according to broadcasters and authorities.

Officials did not provide an immediate cause for the helicopter crash, which occurred after a Metro bus collided with another vehicle earlier in the day, leaving at least ‌two people dead.

“We are deeply saddened to ⁠share that a helicopter providing aerial news coverage for NBC4 and Telemundo 52 was involved in a fatal accident in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening,” NBC4 and Telemundo 52 said in a joint statement.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those who lost their lives.”

NBC News, the parent ‌company, identified two of the victims as employees of helicopter operator Angel City Air: Eliana Moreno, who was also a ⁠photojournalist, and George Marciniw, the pilot.

A third fatality occurred outside the aircraft, the Los Angeles Fire Department said, adding that the helicopter ‌was badly damaged.

A Los Angeles Police officer stands guard near the scene

NBC4 confirmed the crash to viewers during a live broadcast.

“We knew we’d lost contact with our people out there, and we’ve just received the confirmation that, in fact, NewsChopper4 went down just before 7 o’clock tonight in Chatsworth,” NBC anchor Colleen Williams ⁠said, her voice breaking as she delivered the update on air.

The Los Angeles Fire Department said two other people were taken to hospital. More than 70 firefighters were dispatched to the scene and quickly extinguished a fire.

“Our hearts are with the victims and families of tonight’s devastating Metro bus and helicopter crashes in Chatsworth, and with the entire NBC4 family,” said California Governor Gavin Newsom.