Tragedy struck the ABC News team yesterday as a pilot and news photographer lost their lives in a devastating helicopter crash in New Jersey.
The incident occurred in Washington Township, New Jersey, around 8 p.m., as the helicopter was returning from an assignment at the Jersey Shore. The identities of the pilot and photographer have not yet been released, as the news team is currently in the process of notifying their grieving families. These individuals had been an integral part of the Action News team for years, and their loss is deeply felt by their colleagues and the wider community.
The cause of the crash currently remains unknown, and investigators are diligently working to uncover the truth behind this tragic event. New Jersey State Park Police discovered a debris field shortly after midnight, a somber reminder of the devastating impact of the crash. The FAA and NTSB have dispatched representatives to the scene, with the latter expected to arrive later today.
“A pilot and a photographer from our news team were in the helicopter when it went down while returning from an assignment at the Jersey Shore,” CNN affiliate WPVI said on its official website. “Both crew members were killed.”
“We are not releasing the names of the crew members right now as family members are still being notified about the crash,” WPVI said.
The first helicopter to serve as Chopper 6 launched in February 1980. As the new site notes, it was the first TV news helicopter in Philadelphia.
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While being a news helicopter reporter and photographer can be an exciting and rewarding career, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. First and foremost, there can be safety concerns associated with flying in helicopters, especially during emergencies or high-risk situations. However, like any form of transportation, there are risks involved. Statistically speaking, helicopter accidents are relatively rare compared to other forms of transportation.
Their untimely deaths leave a void in the newsroom and in the hearts of their loved ones. The loss of these talented professionals is a loss for the entire journalism community, as their contributions and commitment to their craft will be sorely missed.
New Jersey governor Phil Murphy has since released a statement on the tragedy on X this Wednesday morning. He said, “Our deepest condolences go out to the Action News family following last night’s helicopter crash in Wharton State Forest. The @NTSB and @FAANews are investigating the cause of the accident.”
We will continue to keep you updated as this story develops.
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The post BREAKING: Pilot And News Photographer Dies In ABC Action News Helicopter That Crashed In New Jersey appeared first on Hollywood Unlocked .
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