Los Angeles – A local NBC news helicopter crashed Tuesday evening in the Chatsworth neighborhood of the San Fernando Valley, killing at least three people and leaving another person hospitalized. The incident occurred just after 7 p.m. while reporters were covering a separate collision involving an SUV and a city bus.
Crash details and immediate response
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the helicopter, identified as NewsChopper4 and operated by Angel City Air, struck the ground near a storage building and burst into flames. Capt. Branden Silverman, the department’s spokesperson, described the aircraft as “pretty well destroyed” and said firefighters were sorting through the wreckage to determine how many victims were on board.
At least one victim was found outside the crash site in the parking lot next to the commercial building. It remains unclear whether the other two fatalities were on the ground or inside the helicopter. One person was transported to a hospital, though their condition has not been released.
Related bus‑SUV collision
Earlier that evening, an SUV slammed into the side of an MTA city bus about a mile and a half from the helicopter crash site. The bus collision left at least two people dead and injured six others. Video footage posted online showed the SUV half‑embedded in the bus’s side. The two incidents occurred within a short time frame, prompting a massive emergency response.
More than 50 firefighters responded to the helicopter crash, and additional crews were on scene for the bus collision. The fire department reported that four cars and two storage containers were also burned in the helicopter fire, though the blaze was quickly extinguished.
Official statements
Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X, expressing sympathy for the victims and their families, and thanked the emergency crews for their swift action. “Our hearts are with the victims and families,” he wrote.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced they will investigate the cause of the helicopter crash, with an NTSB investigator scheduled to arrive on Wednesday.
Impact on the community
Chatsworth residents expressed shock and concern over the twin tragedies. Local officials emphasized the importance of safety protocols for both road and air operations in the densely populated valley.
While the cause of the helicopter crash remains under investigation, authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
