PPAGLA Mourns the Victims of the Chatsworth Tragedy
Khai Le
The Press Photographers Association of Greater Los Angeles extends its deepest condolences following the tragic helicopter crash in Chatsworth that claimed the lives of reporter Eliana Moreno, pilot George Marciniw.
This devastating loss has deeply affected the entire Southern California journalism community. We stand in solidarity with Eliana and George’s colleagues at NBC4, Telemundo 52 and Angel City Air.
Eliana and George were respected members of our greater Los Angeles news community. Through their work aboard NewsChopper4, they helped keep the public informed—often from above the most difficult and consequential events unfolding across our region.
We also mourn the loss of Edy Gutierrez Mejia, whose life was tragically taken in this devastating accident. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family and loved ones.
Our hearts are also with the families of Daniel Castillo and Gage Weida, who lost their lives in the bus crash Eliana and George were covering when the helicopter went down. We extend our support to everyone who was injured or otherwise affected by these interconnected tragedies.
This devastating loss has deeply affected the entire Southern California journalism community. We stand in solidarity with Eliana and George’s colleagues at NBC4, Telemundo 52 and Angel City Air. Those who gather and report the news share a unique bond—one built through long hours, demanding assignments and a common commitment to serving the public. When members of our extended family are lost, the grief is felt throughout our newsrooms and our entire profession.
On behalf of the PPAGLA Board of Directors and our entire membership, we offer our love, strength and support to all who are mourning Eliana and George. We honor and will keep their families, friends and colleagues in our thoughts during these extremely difficult time.
Press Photographers Association of Greater Los Angeles Board of Directors