A devastating mid-air collision between two helicopters over New Jersey on Sunday morning has left one person dead and another fighting for his life with critical injuries. The tragic incident occurred near the Hammonton Municipal Airport, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting a major investigation.
The Crash: Timeline and Immediate Aftermath
Emergency services rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a crash at approximately 11:25 am local time on Sunday, 28 December 2025. The two aircraft involved were identified as an Enstrom F-28A helicopter and an Enstrom 280C chopper. According to the Associated Press, only the pilots were on board each aircraft at the time of the accident.
First responders, including police and fire crews, worked swiftly to extinguish the intense flames that had completely engulfed one of the helicopters following the impact. The force of the collision and the subsequent fire led to a grim outcome. One pilot was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other was urgently transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. The identities of the two aviators have not yet been released to the public.
Social Media Footage and Official Investigation
Dramatic videos and photos from the crash site circulated widely on social media platforms, painting a harrowing picture of the event. One particularly chilling clip captured a helicopter spinning violently out of control before crashing to the ground. Other posts showed thick, dark plumes of smoke billowing from the wreckage as alarmed residents looked on.
With details about the cause of the crash still sparse, federal authorities have stepped in. Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal mid-air collision. Their findings will be crucial in determining the sequence of events and any potential safety recommendations.
Ongoing Developments and Community Impact
This remains a developing story, and updates are expected as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in aviation, even during routine operations. The local community in Hammonton and the wider aviation community are awaiting answers as authorities work to piece together the final moments before the tragic collision over the airport.
