Tragic Midair Collision Claims Lives of Two Helicopter Pilots in South Jersey
A tragic midair collision in South Jersey has resulted in the death of a second helicopter pilot, as confirmed by Hammonton Police. The pilots involved in the crash were identified as Kenneth L. Kirsch, 65, from Carney's Point, New Jersey, and Michael Greenberg, 71, from Sewell, New Jersey. Kirsch, piloting an Enstrom model F-28A helicopter, succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, while Greenberg, piloting an Enstrom model 280C, was pronounced dead at the crash site near Basin Road and White Horse Pike in Atlantic County. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that both pilots were the sole occupants of their respective helicopters.
The tragic incident occurred shortly after both helicopters took off from Hammonton Municipal Airport. The collision, which took place at 11:25 a.m., resulted in one of the helicopters catching fire upon impact. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find one of the choppers engulfed in flames. The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA have initiated an investigation into the crash to determine the cause of the collision.
As the investigation into the midair collision continues, our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of Kenneth L. Kirsch and Michael Greenberg. The loss of these experienced pilots is a tragic reminder of the risks associated with aviation. We will provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.