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

At least three people died in the crash involving helicopters from an ABC network affiliate and an independent station, the Arizona Republic newspaper said on its Web site.

A police helicopter was also following the ground pursuit when the crashed occurred, Phoenix police spokesman Sgt. Joel Trantor said. He was unable to confirm any casualties.

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

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