NBC Reporter Eliana Moreno Died of Blunt Force Trauma, Coroner Rules

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office has determined that NBC reporter Eliana Moreno died from blunt force trauma following a helicopter crash that occurred on September 15. Moreno, 38, was aboard the NewsChopper4 helicopter with pilot George Marciniw when it crashed in Chatsworth while covering a deadly collision involving an SUV and an LA Metro bus. The medical examiner's report also listed thermal injuries and inhalation of combustion products as contributing factors to Moreno's death. The cause of death for pilot George Marciniw has not yet been publicly released. The helicopter crash also resulted in the death of Edy Gutierrez Mejia, 29, who was on the ground at the time of the incident. His cause of death was identified as blunt force trauma to the head. The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are continuing their investigation into the cause of the helicopter crash itself.