Los Angeles – A tragic accident struck NBC Los Angeles on Tuesday night when a news‑gathering helicopter operated by Angel City Air went down in the Chatsworth section of the San Fernando Valley just before 7 p.m. local time. The crash claimed the lives of three people: veteran aerial journalist Eliana Moreno, pilot George Marciniw, and a pedestrian who was later identified as a bystander at the scene.
Victims identified
Eliana Moreno, a familiar face on NBC 4 and its Spanish‑language sister station Telemundo 52, was in her late 30s and a native of Orange County. She earned a degree in broadcast journalism and political science from Chapman University in 2010 and joined Angel City Air’s helicopter team that same year. Moreno reported for several Southern California outlets and was known for her bilingual coverage, often sharing behind‑the‑scenes moments on her Instagram account under the nickname “Eli in the heli.”
George Marciniw, the aircraft’s pilot, grew up in Southern California and graduated from Burbank High School in 1974. He brought more than three decades of flight experience to the role and frequently posted scenic photos from the helicopter’s “news cruise,” often crediting Moreno for the images.
The third victim, a pedestrian on the ground, has not yet been identified. Authorities confirmed the individual died at the scene.
Reactions from colleagues and stations
Veteran NBC 4 anchor Colleen Williams delivered an emotional on‑air tribute, saying, “We are coming on the air with heavy hearts tonight because we lost valued friends and colleagues … while on assignment tonight.” She added that the newsroom would take a moment to process the loss.
Both NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52 released a joint statement expressing deep sorrow: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those who lost their lives.” The stations emphasized the dedication of Moreno and Marciniw to delivering timely, accurate news to the community.
Investigation underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have opened investigations into the cause of the crash. Officials have not yet released preliminary findings, and the helicopter’s flight data recorder is being examined.
Angel City Air, the operator of the aircraft, has not issued a public comment beyond confirming the crash and cooperating with investigators.
Community impact
Social media users and fellow journalists quickly paid tribute, highlighting Moreno’s professionalism and Marciniw’s friendly spirit. One comment read, “Fly high in the great beyond,” while another expressed “total utter disbelief.” The loss of two well‑known local news figures has resonated throughout the Los Angeles media community.
Friends and family of the victims have been asked to respect their privacy as they mourn. The crash underscores the inherent risks faced by aerial newsgatherers who work to bring real‑time coverage of traffic, weather and breaking events to viewers across the region.
Safety considerations
Los Angeles officials have reiterated the importance of rigorous safety protocols for news helicopters, a reminder that such aircraft operate in densely populated urban airspace. The NTSB’s findings will likely inform future guidelines for aerial newsgathering in the area.
Our thoughts remain with the families, friends, and colleagues of Eliana Moreno, George Marciniw, and the unnamed pedestrian whose lives were tragically cut short.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
