Three people were killed on Tuesday when a news media helicopter crashed in a Los Angeles neighbourhood.
The helicopter had been covering another deadly accident in the Chatsworth area, northwest of downtown Los Angeles.
An SUV had reportedly collided with a bus in the area, killing three people and injuring several others.
Helicopter Crashes While Covering Bus Accident
Reporters covering the bus crash said they heard a loud bang during the incident.
Some witnesses said they saw a helicopter crash about a block away from the original accident scene.
The crash sent large plumes of smoke into the air.
Aerial footage showed a major fire involving shipping containers and vehicles.
The wreckage of a helicopter could also be seen among the flames. Its damaged tail and rotors were visible at the scene.
Police confirmed that the aircraft was a media helicopter.
The identity of those aboard was not immediately released.
Three People Killed in Crash
The Los Angeles Fire Department sent dozens of firefighters to the crash site.
“Four patients have been assessed. Three patients have been determined deceased on scene. One patient has been transported to a local hospital in unknown condition,” a statement said.
One of those killed appeared to have been a pedestrian on the ground when the helicopter came down.
The local television station later confirmed that its helicopter had crashed.
During live coverage, veteran news anchor Colleen Williams said the station had lost contact with its crew before receiving confirmation.
“We knew it was a news chopper. We knew we’d lost contact with our people out there, and we’ve just received confirmation,” Williams said.
Los Angeles News Helicopters
Los Angeles has one of the largest and most competitive television news markets in the United States.
Local news outlets frequently use helicopters to cover major incidents across the sprawling city.
Aerial coverage is commonly used during fires, major crashes and police pursuits.
News helicopters typically carry two people, including a pilot and a reporter-camera operator.
The crash occurred as media crews were responding to a separate deadly bus accident, adding another fatal incident to an already active scene.
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