Los Angeles: At least three people were killed and another seriously injured after a helicopter being used to cover a live news report crashed into a parking lot in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening.
The helicopter was being used by NBC News to capture aerial footage of a bus-SUV crash in the Chatsworth area of the San Fernando Valley. The earlier road accident, which took place in the morning, had left two people dead and six others injured.
At around 7pm, the helicopter reportedly lost control and crashed into the parking area of a building. The impact destroyed the aircraft and triggered fires involving four cars and two storage containers parked at the site.
Footage of the crash was captured by a camera onboard the helicopter. NBC’s live broadcast was interrupted after the incident was reported on air, with anchor Colleen Williams visibly emotional as she suspended the coverage.
Authorities have not yet confirmed how many people were aboard the helicopter. Fire officials said at least one of those killed was a civilian who was in the parking area.
The helicopter had been flying over the site of the earlier MTA bus-SUV collision as part of the news coverage when the crash occurred.
Rescue and investigation
More than 50 firefighters rushed to the scene and brought the fires under control. Emergency crews are continuing to clear the helicopter wreckage, while investigators are collecting evidence to determine what caused the crash.
Officials are expected to release further details about the victims and the circumstances surrounding the crash as the investigation progresses.
