Local News
Video Captures Helicopter Spiraling to the Ground After Mid-Air Collision in Hammonton
HAMMONTON, N.J. (Atlantic County) — Authorities are investigating a fatal midair collision involving two helicopters that occurred near Hammonton Municipal Airport on Sunday, Dec. 28, at approximately 12:25 p.m. local time, according to law enforcement and aviation officials.
Police confirmed that an Enstrom F-28A helicopter and an Enstrom 280C helicopter collided in midair near Basin Road and North White Horse Pike (Route 206). Officials said only the pilots were aboard each aircraft at the time of the collision.
Both helicopters subsequently crash-landed. One aircraft was reported to be fully engulfed in flames, while the second went down in a wooded area, creating challenging conditions for emergency crews responding to the scene.
Firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement personnel from multiple agencies were dispatched, and additional resources were requested due to the severity of the incident.
Authorities have confirmed that one person was killed as a result of the crash.
Another individual sustained injuries and was transported for medical treatment.
Officials have not yet released the identities of those involved, pending notification of next of kin.
Video circulating on social media appears to show one of the helicopters spiraling toward the ground following the collision.
Authorities cautioned that the footage has not been independently verified and emphasized that the cause of the crash has not yet been determined.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified.
The NTSB will lead the investigation, with support from the FAA, and will examine factors including aircraft operations, pilot actions, airspace coordination, and mechanical condition.
Officials stated that additional updates will be provided by the NTSB as the investigation progresses.
The public is being urged to avoid the area while emergency operations and investigative work continue.
This remains an active and developing investigation, and information may be updated as authorities release confirmed details.
Local News
Multiple people injured after gas explosion at Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Boonville
BOONVILLE, N.Y. — Multiple emergency agencies responded Tuesday morning to reports of a gas odor and a possible explosion at Abundant Life Fellowship Church, located at 12644 State Route 12 in Boonville.
According to Oneida County 911 dispatch, the initial call was received at approximately 10:23 a.m. on February 17.
Callers reported smelling gas inside the building, followed by what was described as a possible explosion.
A large-scale emergency response was immediately initiated. Fire, law enforcement, and emergency medical units from several surrounding communities were dispatched to the scene, including the Boonville Fire Department, Boonville Ambulance, Remsen Fire Department, Barneveld Fire Department, Stittville Fire Department, Forestport Fire Department, and Kuyahoora Ambulance.
Law enforcement agencies responding included the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police.
Additional medical support was provided by Northstar Ambulance, AmCare Ambulance, and Oneida County Emergency Services.
Reports indicate that six ambulances and two medical helicopters were requested to assist at the scene, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
As of this time, officials have not released confirmed information regarding injuries, the extent of structural damage, or the cause of the reported explosion.
Emergency personnel remain on-site conducting assessments and ensuring the safety of the area.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.