Hammonton, NJ (December 29, 2025) – A tragic midair helicopter collision in South Jersey has claimed the lives of both pilots involved.
The collision occurred on Sunday, December 28, near the intersection of Basin Road and White Horse Pike in Atlantic County. Police said two helicopters collided shortly after taking off from Hammonton Municipal Airport around 11:25 a.m.
Investigators identified the pilots as 65-year-old Kenneth L. Kirsch of Carney’s Point and 71-year-old Michael Greenberg of Sewell. Kirsch piloted an Enstrom model F-28A helicopter. Emergency crews airlifted him to a hospital in critical condition following the crash. Despite medical treatment, Kirsch later died from his injuries.
Greenberg piloted an Enstrom model 280C helicopter. First responders pronounced him dead at the crash scene. Firefighters reported that one helicopter was fully engulfed in flames when they arrived.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that both helicopters departed from the same airport shortly before the collision. The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are now leading the investigation. Officials returned to the crash site early Monday to continue their work.
Authorities expect a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board soon, as the investigation remains active and ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased pilots after this tragic accident.
Aviation Accidents in New Jersey
Aviation accidents often cause severe harm because aircraft collisions leave little room for survival. In New Jersey, private and municipal airports operate within busy airspace, which increases risk when multiple aircraft depart within short timeframes. Midair crashes raise serious questions about flight coordination, pilot awareness, and air traffic procedures.
When a fatal aviation accident occurs, families face sudden emotional and financial hardship. These cases often involve complex investigations by federal agencies, which can take months to complete. During this time, families may struggle with unanswered questions while also managing unexpected expenses related to the loss.
Victims’ families may have the right to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim. Compensation depends on the circumstances of the crash and the losses suffered. Possible forms of compensation may include:
- Medical expenses related to emergency care provided before death or during critical treatment.
- Funeral and burial costs for families forced to plan services unexpectedly.
- Loss of income and benefits the victim would have provided over their lifetime.
- Loss of companionship and support suffered by surviving spouses and family members.
- Pain and suffering experienced by the victim before passing.
- Emotional distress endured by close family members following the tragedy.
- Out-of-pocket expenses tied to travel, counseling, or estate-related matters.
Aviation cases may also involve claims against multiple parties, including aircraft owners, maintenance providers, or manufacturers. A wrongful death lawyer can help determine whether negligence, mechanical failure, or operational errors contributed to the crash.
At Metro Law, we know how challenging this time can be for grieving families. If you or someone you love has been affected by a fatal aviation accident in New Jersey, we are here to help.
We work to protect families’ rights and pursue accountability on their behalf. Our team remains committed to guiding you through every step. Call Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 to discuss your legal options and learn how we may assist you.