Philadelphia House Delegation sends condolences following Chopper 6 crash

Tragic loss of two crew members at 6abc occurred overnight

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 20 – Today, the Philadelphia House Delegation joins the Delaware Valley in mourning the loss of two longtime crew members at WPVI-TV 6abc in the early morning crash of Chopper 6 in remote southern New Jersey.

Delegation Chair state Rep. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila., said that the tragedy is felt across the region.

“Our love and sympathy is sent to the families of the crew and to the 6abc family. News staff are part of the fabric of our communities and seen everywhere in the region,” Cephas said. “The sudden and tragic loss of the pilot and videographer in the line of service is heartbreaking for everyone, especially so close to the holidays.”

House Majority Appropriations Chairman state Rep. Jordan Harris, D-Phila. expressed his sympathies and appreciation for the service of the crew.

“My heart goes out to the friends, families, and colleagues of the 6abc employees we lost last night,” Harris said. “The Action News team works tirelessly to keep us informed of what’s happening in our city and our world every single day. I hope that they find comfort during this time of bereavement.”

The crash occurred overnight in a wooded area of southern New Jersey as the crew was returning from an assignment at the Jersey Shore. “Chopper 6” is an iconic airship that has served the Philadelphia region since 1980 bringing the world closer to viewers with a unique perspective as the first news helicopter in the region. The National Transportation Safety Board is on the scene investigating the incident.