A news helicopter that was covering a bus collision in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, crashed on Tuesday evening, resulting in three fatalities and two injuries, as reported by authorities. The incident happened just before 7:00 p.m. and involved the NewsChopper4, operated by Angel City Air, which collided between two buildings, sparking a fire that spread to nearby vehicles.
The victims included two Angel City Air employees: journalist Eliana Moreno, recognized as a familiar presence at the station and Telemundo 52, and the helicopter’s pilot, George Marciniw. The third deceased individual was reportedly on the ground at the time of the crash.
According to Fire Battalion Chief Rico Gross, the two individuals who were hospitalized are receiving treatment, although specifics regarding their conditions weren’t disclosed.
“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,” a statement from NBC4 and Telemundo 52 read. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of those who lost their lives.”
The exact cause of the helicopter crash remains unspecified. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has begun an investigation into the event, involving a Eurocopter AS 350 B2.
Additionally, the station was reporting on a separate bus accident at the time, where at least two fatalities occurred, along with several reported injuries among others involved, according to the fire department.
