Pilot Monroe Smith, 67, of Glenside, Pa. and photographer Christopher Dougherty, 45, of Oreland, Pa., were in Chopper 6 when it went down in Washington Township, New Jersey just after 8 p.m. Tuesday. They were returning from an assignment at the Jersey Shore.
SEE ALSO: Friends, former colleagues remember 2 crew members killed in Chopper 6 crash
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The aircraft had taken off from Northeast Philadelphia for an assignment in Galloway Township, New Jersey. It went down while returning to Philadelphia.
"They are described as the best guys you'd want to know. Family men who would do anything for the ones they love," said Action News reporter Maggie Kent.
The pilot and photographer have a long history with our station and have been working as part of the Action News team for years.
READ MORE: Pilot, photographer killed after Action News' Chopper 6 crashes in wooded area of New Jersey
Pilot, photographer killed after Action News' Chopper 6 crashes in wooded area of New Jersey
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6abc leases Chopper 6 from U.S. Helicopters Incorporated based in North Carolina.
Our hangar at the airport is right next to the Philadelphia Police Aviation Unit.
Lt. Scott Pastman has been flying for the police department for 17 years and said he would see our team in passing regularly.
"It hits home because every night we're doing the same thing...so it definitely takes its toll and it's shocking to hear and we really feel too for the families," he said.
Philadelphia police chopper pilot shares condolences following deadly crash
Condolences have been pouring in from viewers, colleagues and members from all parts of the community by way of phone calls, emails and posts on social media.
That includes messages such as:
"My heart goes out to all of you. You are such a wonderful group and truly feel like a family. Prayers to you and the families of those lost."
"Sad to hear any day but especially this close to the holidays. Much love to their loved ones including their ABC News family."
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"Gut-wrenching news. My heart sank on reading this. Praying for those in the chopper and their families. Thoughts and prayers for all of you at WPVI and the Action News team."
The cause of the crash is not yet known.
The National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation.
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How the NTSB will investigate the fatal crash of Chopper 6