New Jersey(The COW News Digital)A mid-air collision between two helicopters in the US state of New Jersey has left one person dead and another critically injured, according to local authorities. The incident occurred in the Hammonton area, triggering an immediate emergency response from police and rescue teams.
The Hammonton Police Department said the crash took place near Basin Road, where the two helicopters collided under circumstances that are still under investigation. Following the impact, one of the helicopters caught fire, intensifying the severity of the accident.
Police confirmed that one individual died at the scene, while another sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Medical officials described the injured person’s condition as critical. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims.
According to initial reports, only the pilots were on board the helicopters at the time of the collision, and no passengers were involved. Emergency responders worked swiftly to secure the area and extinguish the fire to prevent further damage or risk to nearby residents.
Eyewitnesses told local media that they heard a loud noise before seeing smoke rising from the crash site. Law enforcement officials quickly cordoned off the area as firefighters battled the blaze and paramedics attended to the injured pilot.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and are expected to assist local authorities in the investigation. Officials said the inquiry will focus on flight paths, communication between the aircraft, weather conditions, and possible mechanical or human factors that may have contributed to the collision.
US media reported that the cause of the crash is not yet known, and investigators are examining all possibilities. Helicopter operations in the surrounding area were temporarily restricted as a precaution while authorities assessed the situation.
Aviation accidents involving helicopters are relatively rare but often prompt strict safety reviews due to the complex nature of low-altitude flight operations. Officials said more details would be released once the investigation progresses.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted the risks faced by pilots and the importance of strict adherence to aviation safety protocols. Local authorities urged the public to avoid the area while investigations and cleanup operations continue.
