A TV news helicopter crashed in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening while covering a deadly traffic collision in the Chatsworth neighbourhood.
The helicopter, according to the Los Angeles Times, went down near N Mason Avenue as a news crew was reporting on a separate crash involving an SUV and a Los Angeles Metro bus.
Helicopter crashes during live coverage
The initial collision occurred on Tuesday when an SUV crashed into the side of a Metro bus. At least two people were killed and six others injured, according to preliminary reports.
As emergency crews responded and news helicopters flew overhead, one aircraft crashed into a parking lot between commercial buildings. The impact sparked a large fire that spread to several nearby vehicles.
The helicopter was preliminarily identified as belonging to NBC Los Angeles, although officials were expected to confirm the aircraft and those on board.
One person killed in helicopter crash
The Los Angeles Fire Department sent crews to the scene shortly after 7 pm to tackle the flames and heavy smoke.
At least three people have been killed including one on the ground in the helicopter crash, according to officials. Emergency responders also worked to determine the condition of the pilot and any other crew members aboard the aircraft.
Officials said the helicopter was ‘pretty well destroyed’ by the fire, making it difficult for responders to assess the situation immediately.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to investigate the crash and determine what caused the helicopter to go down while covering the traffic collision. (First Post)
#BREAKING: NBC news helicopter crashes during live shot of bus crash in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/qEDWEauiST
— Insider Wire (@InsiderWire) September 16, 2026