Family Honored Helicopter Pilot After Fatal Crash
The family of George Marciniw expressed gratitude for public support following his death in a Chatsworth helicopter crash.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Accidents
The family of veteran pilot George Marciniw has issued a statement thanking the public for their support after he and reporter Eliana Moreno died in a helicopter crash. The pair were covering a bus crash in the San Fernando Valley when their aircraft went down in Chatsworth on September 15, 2026.
Why it matters
The tragedy highlighted the risks faced by journalists and air crews while reporting on unfolding emergencies. Marciniw and Moreno, who worked for NBCLA and Telemundo 52, will be honored at the upcoming Fallen Journalists Memorial.
The SUV driver involved in the initial bus crash currently faces charges of murder, DUI, and reckless driving. Authorities are continuing to process evidence related to both the bus collision and the subsequent aviation incident.
The players
George Marciniw
He was a veteran pilot with over 30 years of aviation experience who worked for NBCLA and Telemundo 52.
Eliana Moreno
She was a journalist for NBCLA and Telemundo 52 who died alongside the pilot during the crash.
Mike Marciniw
He is the son of George Marciniw who released a public statement following his father's death.
The details
George Marciniw, a Burbank High School graduate with more than 30 years of aviation experience, was piloting the helicopter based out of Whiteman Airport in Pacoima. The crew had been providing aerial coverage of a separate bus crash when the accident occurred in Chatsworth.
Timeline
1984: George Marciniw graduated from Burbank High School.
September 15, 2026: The helicopter crash occurred in Chatsworth.
September 28, 2026: The family released a statement regarding their loss.
End of 2028: The Fallen Journalists Memorial is expected to be completed.
Legal Context
This tragedy underscores the dangers inherent in news gathering, joining a long list of incidents involving aerial reporting crews in Los Angeles. The inclusion of the victims' names in the Fallen Journalists Memorial reflects a broader effort to formalize the recognition of media workers killed while performing their duties.
Residents in the San Fernando Valley may experience lingering traffic impacts near the site of the original bus crash as the investigation continues. The public is encouraged to follow official updates from local agencies regarding the ongoing legal proceedings against the SUV driver.
The takeaway
This event serves as a reminder of the significant risks taken by emergency responders and media personnel to keep the public informed. Memorials like the one planned in Washington, D.C. aim to ensure the sacrifices made in the line of duty are not forgotten.
Further reading
For more information on incidents in the region, visit the Los Angeles Accidents section.
