A helicopter from NBC4 crashed while covering a nearby bus accident, resulting in multiple fatalities.
On September 16, 2026, a helicopter operated by NBC4 crashed in Los Angeles, resulting in the deaths of at least three individuals. Reports indicate that the helicopter was in the process of covering a serious Metro bus accident in the Chatsworth neighborhood when it crashed just before 7 p.m. PT. Tragically, the crash ignited a fire that impacted several nearby vehicles, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department, which confirmed the fatalities at the scene.
The helicopter was identified as part of Angel City Air’s NewsChopper4 fleet and was conducting live coverage when it lost control. Fire officials confirmed that two of the deceased were personnel aboard the helicopter: reporter Eliana Moreno and pilot George Marciniw. The third victim was a pedestrian named Edy Gutierrez Mejia, who was situated on the ground near the crash site. The incident and subsequent fire prompted vast emergency response measures, highlighting the dangers associated with live news coverage.
Initial reports from the Los Angeles Fire Department conveyed that the helicopter was “pretty well destroyed.” Investigators from both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are scheduled to investigate the cause of the crash. Fortunately, it appears no buildings were compromised. However, four cars and two storage containers suffered damage from the fire. Brandon Silverman, LAFD's public information officer, noted that the area around the wreckage has been significantly affected.
In the wake of the incident, local leaders and officials expressed their condolences. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass stated she was "absolutely devastated by the loss of life," while California Governor Gavin Newsom extended his sympathies, emphasizing the community’s sorrow over the dual tragedies of the bus accident and helicopter crash. NBC4 and Telemundo released a statement conveying their heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, highlighting the deep impact of the loss on their journalism team. Both Moreno and Marciniw had been vital sources of local news coverage since at least 2023, contributing to coverage during significant events, including the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.
The tragic loss of life in this incident brings to light the inherent risks faced by journalists in dangerous environments. Investigations may lead to changes in regulations or guidelines for news helicopters operating during emergencies. This tragic event not only affects the families of those lost but also resonates throughout the local community, emphasizing the need for improved safety protocols in high-stakes reporting situations. Community members, as well as the families affected, will inevitably feel the ramifications of this disaster for years to come.
For further details about the recovery efforts and the incident itself, please refer back to reports on the matter.
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