Los Angeles Helicopter Crash During Coverage of Deadly SUV-Bus Collision

A Los Angeles helicopter crash occurred Tuesday evening in the Chatsworth neighborhood while a news helicopter was covering a deadly traffic collision involving an SUV and a Los Angeles Metro bus. The aircraft came down near N Mason Avenue as emergency crews were responding to the earlier crash.

The first crash occured when an SUV slammed the side of a Metro bus. Preliminary reports stated at least two persons were murdered and six others were wounded in the event.

As firemen and other emergency officials worked at the incident, news helicopters were flying over the area to report on the crash. One of the helicopters then crashed into a parking area situated between business buildings.

The accident generated a massive fire. Flames spread to other cars parked nearby, as dense smoke erupted from the area and made the rescue response more difficult.

Los Angeles Helicopter Crash Leaves At Least Three Dead

The Los Angeles Fire Department rushed workers to the incident scene just after 7 p.m. Firefighters tried to put out the flames as emergency personnel evaluated the damage and scoured the area.

Officials reported at least three persons were killed in connection with the helicopter accident, including one person on the ground. Authorities were also seeking to ascertain the health of the pilot and any probable crew members who were onboard the helicopter.

The aeroplane received substantial damage in the fire. Officials described the chopper as being “pretty well destroyed,” which made it impossible for rescuers to instantly identify what had happened to everyone who may have been inside.

The helicopter was preliminarily recognised as a news aircraft, however authorities were expected to confirm the aircraft’s identify and offer additional data about individuals on board.

BREAKING: An NBC Los Angeles news helicopter crashed during live coverage of a deadly bus crash. The condition of those onboard is unknown. pic.twitter.com/cXMmubKrgq

— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) September 16, 2026

The horrific SUV and Metro bus incident had already brought rescue services to the Chatsworth area before the aircraft went down. The second accident brought another significant emergency to the scene as firemen dealt with the flaming aircraft and neighbouring automobiles.

Investigation Expected Into Helicopter Crash

Federal officials are likely to examine the Los Angeles chopper accident. The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are anticipated to investigate the aircraft, the circumstances surrounding the incident and what caused it to go down.

Officials had not immediately offered a clear explanation for why the helicopter crashed while covering the traffic incident. More information is likely when rescue workers conclude their job and investigators begin studying the disaster scene.

The inquiry will also assist identify the circumstances underlying the fatalities and injuries associated to the helicopter disaster and the prior SUV-Metro bus incident.