Two helicopters collided in mid-air and crashed in South New Jersey, killing one person and injuring another, according to reports.
Harrowing video circulating on social media filmed from the parking lot of a Tractor Supply Co. store in Hammonton shows a large black plume of smoke in the distance as shocked onlookers reacted to the crash.
The collision happened just after noon Sunday at 100 Basin Road in Hammonton, less than three miles from Hammonton Airport, according to Atlantic County Fire and EMS radio traffic.
Two helicopters have crashed in South New Jersey, reportedly killing at least one person. WPVI via Ryan Long
Harrowing video shows a thick plume of smoke after the choppers collided. Facebook/Ryan Long
“We got one helicopter fully involved, I’m looking for the second one, I got another one in the woods down. Start extrication, we’re gonna need expedited response,” a dispatcher said in the scanner audio.
“We have two confirmed injuries,” said another voice in the audio.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the crash in a statement to The Post, and said only the two pilots were involved.
“An Enstrom F-28A helicopter and Enstrom 280C helicopter collided in mid-air near Hammonton Municipal Airport in New Jersey around 12:25 p.m. local time on Sunday, Dec. 28,” the FAA wrote.
“Only the pilots were on board each aircraft. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate. The NTSB will be in charge of the investigation and will provide further updates.”
Both helicopters are small aircraft that were manufactured decades ago.
Another video posted online appears to show a helicopter spinning out of control before crashing down out of sight, per 6ABC Action News, which also confirmed one person died.
Hammonton Police Chief Kevin Friel did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for additional information.
This is a developing story. Please check back for more information.