Updated: September 16, 2026
Los Angeles television journalist and aerial reporter Eliana Moreno was among three people killed when a news helicopter crashed in the Chatsworth area of Los Angeles on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.
The helicopter was being used to provide aerial coverage for NBC Los Angeles and Telemundo 52 when it went down while crews were covering a separate deadly traffic accident nearby.
Eliana Moreno Confirmed Among the Victims
NBC Los Angeles confirmed that Eliana Moreno, an aerial reporter and photographer, was one of the people killed in the crash. Pilot George Marciniw was also identified as a victim.
A third person died in the incident, while another person was taken to a hospital, according to reports from authorities.
Moreno was known for her work covering breaking news from the air across Southern California. Reports say she had been working in television news helicopters since 2010.
What Happened to the Helicopter?
The helicopter crashed in Chatsworth, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, while the news crew was covering an earlier collision involving an SUV and a Metro bus.
The helicopter caught fire after crashing near a commercial area. Several vehicles and storage containers were also damaged by the resulting fire, and firefighters responded to the scene.
The earlier road accident had already resulted in fatalities and injuries, making the helicopter crash a second major tragedy in the area that evening.
Cause of the Crash Remains Under Investigation
Authorities have not yet announced a definitive cause for the helicopter crash.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are investigating the incident. Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft, flight data, communications, weather conditions and other circumstances surrounding the crash before determining what happened.
At this stage, claims about what caused the helicopter to go down should be treated as unconfirmed unless supported by investigators.
Remembering Eliana Moreno
Moreno’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief among colleagues and members of the Southern California news community.
She graduated from Chapman University and built a career specializing in aerial journalism and photography. Her work frequently brought viewers a bird’s-eye view of breaking news events, including major emergencies and fires.
Her colleagues have publicly paid tribute to Moreno and Marciniw following the crash.
Investigation Continues
The investigation is expected to take time as federal authorities work to establish the circumstances that led to the crash.
For now, officials have confirmed the deaths of three people, including Eliana Moreno and George Marciniw. Additional details may emerge as investigators examine the wreckage and gather information from witnesses and other sources.
