**Three Dead After LA News Helicopter Crashes While Covering Fatal Bus Collision**
*Los Angeles, CA – September 16, 2026* – A tragic incident unfolded in suburban Los Angeles on Tuesday evening when a news helicopter crashed, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to two others. The helicopter, identified as NBC Los Angeles's NewsChopper4, was on-site to cover a separate bus collision that had occurred earlier in the day.
The crash took place just before 7:00 PM local time in the Chatsworth neighborhood, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The helicopter went down between two commercial buildings, leading to a fire that spread to four vehicles and two storage containers. Over 70 firefighters were dispatched to the scene to manage the blaze and assist in rescue efforts.
During live coverage of the incident on NBC4, veteran anchor Colleen Williams expressed the station's sorrow, stating, "We knew it was a news chopper. We knew we'd lost contact with our people out there, and we've just received confirmation." The emotional broadcast highlighted the gravity of the situation as the station confirmed the involvement of its helicopter.
Earlier in the day, the LAFD reported that two people had died and six others were injured in a separate collision involving an SUV and a city bus in Chatsworth. This earlier incident set the scene for the news helicopter's presence in the area, as multiple news outlets were reporting on the bus crash when the helicopter went down.
LAFD Captain Branden Silverman provided additional details, noting that one confirmed victim appeared to be outside the helicopter at the time of the crash and was declared deceased at the scene. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has stated that the total number of individuals onboard the helicopter at the time of the crash remains unknown, and no names of the victims have been released.
In the wake of the tragedy, the LAPD extended its condolences via social media, expressing their thoughts and prayers for the families, friends, and colleagues of those affected. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also took to social media, stating she was "absolutely devastated by the loss of life in Chatsworth tonight." She conveyed her sympathies to the families and loved ones impacted by both the bus collision and the helicopter crash.
California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his sorrow as well, stating, "Our hearts are with the victims and families of tonight's devastating Metro bus and helicopter crashes in Chatsworth, and with the entire NBC4 family." He also acknowledged the efforts of first responders who worked tirelessly at the scene.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has announced that it will lead the investigation into the helicopter crash, seeking to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
As the community grapples with the loss, the impact of the dual tragedies resonates deeply, highlighting the dangers faced by those in the news industry as they report on critical events. The investigation by the NTSB is expected to provide more clarity in the coming days as officials seek answers and accountability in this heartbreaking situation.