One Killed, One Critically Injured in New Jersey Helicopter Collision
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A tragic midair collision involving two helicopters in Hammonton, New Jersey, on Sunday, December 28, 2025, resulted in one fatality and left another individual critically injured. Authorities responded to the scene near the 100 block of Basin Road shortly before noon, extinguishing a fire that engulfed one of the aircraft.
Initial Response and Investigation
The Hammonton Police Department received calls regarding the aviation crash at approximately 11:25 a.m. local time. Police, fire, and emergency medical services swiftly responded to the location. According to reports, one helicopter was fully ablaze upon arrival, requiring immediate firefighting efforts.
Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the incident. The NTSB will lead the investigation, with investigators already en route to document the wreckage and gather evidence.
Aircraft Involved and Preliminary Findings
The FAA has identified the helicopters involved as an Enstrom F-28A and an Enstrom 280C. The collision occurred midair near Hammonton Municipal Airport. A statement from the FAA emphasized that the information released is preliminary and subject to change as the investigation progresses.
The FAA plans to publish a preliminary accident report within one business day, pending verification of the aircraft registration numbers. This report will provide an initial overview of the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Scope of the NTSB Investigation
The NTSB’s investigation will center on three key areas: the pilot, the aircraft, and the operating environment. Investigators will meticulously review a wide range of data, including:
- Flight track data to reconstruct the helicopters’ paths.
- Air traffic control communications to understand any interactions with controllers.
- Aircraft maintenance records to assess the mechanical condition of the helicopters.
- Weather and lighting conditions at the time of the crash.
- Pilot licensing and flight experience to evaluate qualifications.
- A 72-hour background of the pilot to identify any contributing factors.
- Witness statements from individuals who observed the incident.
- Electronic devices recovered from the wreckage.
- Surveillance video, including footage from doorbell cameras, to gain additional perspectives.
Call for Public Assistance
The NTSB is actively seeking information from the public that could aid in the investigation. Anyone with relevant details is urged to contact the NTSB at [email protected].
Official Response and Timeline
New Jersey Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way confirmed she had been briefed on the midair collision, noting the presence of the Atlantic County Office of Emergency Management, Hammonton Police Department, and New Jersey State Police personnel at the scene.
The NTSB does not release the identities of those injured or killed, deferring to local authorities for that information. A preliminary report is anticipated within 30 days, while the final report, which will determine the probable cause of the crash, is expected to take between 12 and 24 months to complete.
