3rd victim identified in NBC4 helicopter crash in Chatsworth that also killed reporter, pilot
CHATSWORTH, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The third person who was killed after an NBC4 news helicopter crashed near the scene of a deadly bus collision in Chatsworth has been identified as the investigation continues into what caused the aircraft to go down.
The helicopter crashed between two commercial buildings on Mason Avenue around 7 p.m. Tuesday. NBC4 later confirmed that the aircraft that crashed was the station's helicopter, and that reporter Eliana Moreno and pilot George Marciniw died as a result.
An LAFD spokesperson said a third person who was on the ground also died.
On Wednesday, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified one of the victims as 29-year-old Edy Gutierrez Mejia.
In addition to the three people who died at the scene, one person nearby was taken to the hospital after suffering an apparent panic attack and another person was also hospitalized in unknown condition.
Firefighters said the helicopter was fully engulfed in flames when they arrived. A thick plume of black smoke rose into the air.
The fire department said four vehicles and two storage containers were damaged by the fire. The fire was quickly put out.
Officials provide update after NBC4 helicopter crashes, killing 3
"This is a heartbreaking night for our city, and my thoughts and prayers are first and foremost with the families and loved ones that we lost today," L.A. Mayor Karen Bass said at a news conference late Tuesday. "Our hearts are with those impacted by the bus collision and the helicopter crash, and with the entire community who lost members of their team while they were doing their job."
Gov. Gavin Newsom thanked first responders for "working tirelessly tonight."
"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," Newsom said.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration will investigate.
