Second pilot dies in New Jersey helicopter crash; both pilots identified.

Authorities confirmed on Monday that the second pilot involved in a midair helicopter collision in New Jersey has died, following an incident that occurred on Sunday morning. The aviation mishap took place over Hammonton Township, approximately 30 miles southeast of Philadelphia, resulting in a catastrophic crash that claimed the lives of both pilots.

The two helicopters, identified as Enstrom F-28A and Enstrom 280C models, collided while flying in close proximity, reportedly in a tandem formation near Hammonton Municipal Airport. The impact sent both aircraft spiraling to the ground, with one helicopter igniting upon landing. Fortunately, no ground casualties were reported.

The pilots have been identified as Michael Greenberg, a 71-year-old resident of Sewell, and Kenneth Kirsch, a 65-year-old from Carney’s Point. Greenberg was pronounced dead at the scene, while Kirsch was taken to a hospital in Camden but later succumbed to his injuries. Both men had been noted as familiar faces in the local community, where they reportedly visited a local café frequently.

Eyewitness accounts painted a harrowing picture of the incident. Witnesses observed the helicopters flying closely together before the collision occurred. Local residents described moments of disbelief as they watched the aircraft descend. One resident recalled observing the first helicopter flip upside down and begin to spin rapidly before plummeting to the ground. Another witness noted hearing a peculiar sound as the second helicopter began its descent, suggesting a sudden and catastrophic failure after the initial impact.

In the aftermath of the accident, law enforcement has initiated an investigation into the incident, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) along with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to play a significant role in probing the circumstances surrounding the collision.

While the community absorbs the shock of the tragedy, attention also turns to the ongoing safety measures in place to prevent future incidents of this nature. The collision has raised questions about air traffic management and the protocols governing the operation of aircraft in shared airspace.

As authorities continue their investigation, the loss of these two experienced pilots underscores the inherent risks associated with aviation, particularly in operations involving smaller aircraft in populated areas.

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