Full Breakdown
Los Angeles Bus-SUV Collision Leads to Fatal News Helicopter Crash
By Drooid · · How we work
Crash Sequence
On Tuesday, a 2004 Ford Expedition driven the wrong way down a busy Los Angeles avenue ran a red light, struck an SUV and then collided with a city bus. Police say the crash killed at least two people and injured six. While emergency crews responded, a news helicopter operated by Angel City Air and used by NBC 4 and Telemundo 52 crashed nearby, bursting into flames and killing the two crew members aboard—reporter Eliana Moreno and pilot George Marciniw—and at least one person on the ground. The incident occurred in the Chatsworth neighborhood, where flowers were later placed at the crash site.
Background & Context
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration have dispatched investigators, noting that video captured during the live broadcast will be a key piece of evidence. This crash adds to a record of eight fatal news-helicopter accidents in the United States since 2000, which together have claimed 16 lives.
Official Statements & Responses
NBC 4 and Telemundo 52 released a statement of deep sadness and extended condolences to the families of those killed. Fire-department spokesperson Capt. Branden Silverman described the wrecked helicopter as “pretty well destroyed,” while battalion chief Rico A. Gross reported that two people were taken to a hospital, with conditions not immediately released.
Data & Statistics
- Bus-SUV collision: at least 2 fatalities, 6 injuries.
- Helicopter crash: 2 crew members killed, >=1 ground fatality (total >=5 deaths).
- Bail for driver Bailee Lynn Rios set at $4 million USD.
- Since 2000, eight fatal news-helicopter crashes in the U.S., resulting in 16 deaths.