Tragedy / Three Killed in NBC News Helicopter Crash during Live Coverage in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, Sep 16: Chaos struck Los Angeles on Tuesday night when an NBC news helicopter crashed in Chatsworth while covering a deadly SUV-Metro bus collision, leaving at least three people dead and sparking a massive emergency response.

NBC Los Angeles reported that its helicopter went down during a live shot of an earlier collision involving an SUV and a Metro bus, which had already claimed two lives.

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) said the crash occurred around 7 pm at 9151 N. Mason Avenue, between two commercial buildings.

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“Attempts were being made to reach the pilot and other people who were aboard the helicopter following the crash,” NBC Los Angeles stated. The station added that one person was transported to a nearby hospital, though their condition was not immediately known.

CBS News reported the helicopter appeared to have landed on top of two shipping containers and several parked vehicles. The crash also sparked a fire, prompting emergency responders to rush to the scene. KTLA, citing preliminary information, said at least one person had been pulled from the wreckage, though the total number of injured remained unclear.

A subsequent update from CBS confirmed the fire had been extinguished. A canopy was erected over one of the bodies as recovery efforts continued.

The crash unfolded as multiple helicopters circled the area to cover the SUV‑bus collision, which had already left several casualties. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations into the incident.

The dual tragedies—first the deadly road accident, then the helicopter crash—have shaken the Chatsworth community. Authorities said further details would be released as the probe continues.

(IANS)