A deadly aviation incident unfolded in Hammonton, New Jersey, after two Enstrom helicopters collided midair and crashed into a field near the municipal airport, killing one pilot and seriously injuring another, according to federal and local authorities.
What Happened Near Hammonton Municipal Airport
The Federal Aviation Administration said an Enstrom F-28A and an Enstrom 280C helicopter collided at approximately 11:25 a.m. Sunday near Hammonton Municipal Airport.
Only the pilots were onboard each aircraft at the time of the collision. Both helicopters went down in a field near 100 Basin Road, less than three miles from the airport.
#Internacionales | Un choque entre dos helicópteros dejó una persona fallecida y otra herida en Hammonton, Nueva Jersey. Imágenes captaron el momento del desplome de una de las aeronaves.#TNM #GMV pic.twitter.com/usM72ZQzjp
— Telenoticias Megavisión (@TelenoticiasGMV) December 28, 2025
Emergency Response and Casualties
Emergency crews arriving at the scene found one helicopter engulfed in flames, according to Hammonton Police Chief Kevin Friel. Firefighters quickly worked to extinguish the blaze.
Hammonton Fire Department Chief Sean Macri confirmed both pilots were airlifted to a trauma centre. One pilot later died from injuries sustained in the crash, while the second remains hospitalized.
Scanner audio captured the urgency of the response, with dispatchers reporting one helicopter “fully involved” and another down in nearby woods, prompting rapid extrication efforts.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation into the cause of the midair collision. The FAA said further updates will be released as investigators analyze flight paths, airspace use, and aircraft condition.
Both helicopters involved were older Enstrom models, manufactured decades ago, officials confirmed.
Videos Show Smoke and Final Moments
Videos circulating on social media appear to show a large plume of black smoke rising from the crash site. Another clip reportedly shows a helicopter spinning out of control before disappearing from view. Authorities have not verified the footage but acknowledged public concern.
Public Safety Advisory
The Hammonton Fire Department urged residents to avoid the area as emergency operations and federal investigations continue. Hammonton lies in Atlantic County, about 35 miles from Philadelphia, near the New Jersey Pine Barrens, a heavily wooded region that complicated access for responders.
