(Updates with four dead, details)

PHOENIX, July 27 (Reuters) - Four people were killed on Friday when two television news helicopters collided in the air over Phoenix while following a police chase in the Arizona desert city, police and media reports said.

The crash involved helicopters from an ABC network affiliate and an independent station that were covering the police pursuit of a car theft and assault suspect.

Television images showed thick black smoke pouring from the scene of the crash in a city park.

A police helicopter was also following the ground pursuit when the crash occurred, Phoenix police spokesman Sgt. Joel Trantor said.

Police were after someone suspected of stealing a city truck, then jumping into at least one other vehicle during the afternoon chase, Trantor said.

The suspect was cornered by police in a nearby building.

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