LOS ANGELES — A news helicopter crashed in Los Angeles County, killing multiple people, authorities and local media reported, in an incident that occurred near the scene of an earlier deadly bus crash.
NBC4 Los Angeles confirmed the aircraft belonged to the news outlet. Officials did not immediately release a full passenger list or a detailed cause. Early reports said the helicopter burst into flames after going down.
What is known
Emergency crews responded to the crash site as smoke and fire were reported. Local stations and wire services said at least three people were killed, though the final toll was still being confirmed by investigators.
News Alert! NBC4 Los Angeles says its news helicopter crashed in the city, and officials say multiple people are dead, reports AP.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 16, 2026
Investigation
Federal and local aviation investigators typically examine flight data, maintenance records, weather, and airspace conditions after news-chopper accidents. Los Angeles has a dense low-altitude media corridor, and past incidents have led to tighter coordination rules.
The earlier bus crash in the same area complicated the emergency response picture for the public, though authorities treated the helicopter event as a separate investigation.
What comes next
Officials are expected to release identities of the victims after next-of-kin notifications. The National Transportation Safety Board may take the lead on the technical probe. Further updates will depend on wreckage examination and any onboard recording devices.
