WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ — A news helicopter from Philadelphia met a tragic end Tuesday night, crashing in Wharton State Forest, New Jersey.
On Friday, officials investigating the crash provided more news to the public regarding the incident.
The accident resulted in the deaths of pilot Monroe Smith, 67, and photographer Christopher Dougherty, 45, both residents of Montgomery County.
The 6ABC Action News crew was returning from photographing Christmas light displays near Atlantic City. According to Todd Gunther, National Transportation Safety Board investigator, the helicopter was en route to its base at Northeast Philadelphia Airport when it crashed at high speed into the forest.
Gunther, addressing reporters near the crash site, confirmed that the Chopper 6 struck trees and fragmented, followed by a post-crash fire. Investigators found no evidence of in-flight fire or explosion. Analysis of the rotor and transmission indicated they were operational at impact, suggesting the helicopter had power during the crash. No emergency signals were broadcast by the pilot.
The crew had departed Northeast Philadelphia Airport earlier that day, embarking on their return journey around 8 p.m. Between that time and midnight, the helicopter encountered fatal difficulties. Conditions during the flight were clear and cold, with the aircraft maintaining its course until the crash.
New Jersey State Police located the wreckage near Mullica River Road, a few hundred yards from Middle Road and Quaker Bridge Atsion Road. The debris is being transferred to a secure facility for reconstruction and further examination.
The investigation, which could take up to two years, continues as the NTSB seeks to determine the crash’s cause.