What caused the NBC News helicopter to crash in Los Angeles?

The official cause of the helicopter crash is under investigation by the FAA and NTSB. Initial insights suggest it may have been due to engine failure, as indicated by a low rotor RPM horn and a decrease in engine revs.

Who was the pilot of NewsChopper 4 during the crash?

While George Marciniw is a veteran helicopter pilot associated with NBC's NewsChopper 4, NBC has not officially confirmed whether he was the pilot aboard during the crash.

How many people were killed in the helicopter crash near Chatsworth?

Three people died in the helicopter crash, and one additional person was transported to a nearby hospital in unknown condition.

NBC's Colleen Williams confirms it was NewsChopper 4 that crashed in LA, killed 3

Updated on: Sep 16, 2026, 09:58:35 IST

By HT News Desk

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NBC's Colleen Williams on Wednesday confirmed that it was NewsChopper 4 that crashed in LA, killing three. The incident took place near the crash site in Chatsworth where an SUV ploughed into a Metro bus, killing at least two.

While three died, one person was moved to a nearby hospital in unknown condition. (Representational Photo/ Unsplash)

During a visibily emotional live coverage on NBC4, veteran news anchor Colleen Williams confirmed it was the local news station's helicopter that crashed.

"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.

The helicopter crashed around 7 pm near a one-story commercial building in the neighborhood of Chatsworth in the San Fernando Valley, as news crews were covering the bus crash that left at least two people dead and six others injured, according the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Confirming the news of the crash, the Los Angeles Fire Department wrote “Chatsworth AIRCRAFT CRASH/ CRASH IMMINENT 9151 N Mason Avenue.” The incident took place around 7pm between two commercials buildings at 9151 N. Mason Avenue as per reports.

NBC also reported they were having trouble reaching the pilot and people onboard the helicopter. While three died, one person was moved to a nearby hospital in unknown condition.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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