A medical evacuation helicopter carrying five individuals crashed into the waters off the coast of California’s Catalina Island on Wednesday evening, resulting in two fatalities and injuries to three others, according to officials.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department confirmed that the crash occurred shortly after takeoff. Emergency responders from LA County Fire, the Sheriff’s Department, the Coast Guard, and the Avalon Fire Department were dispatched to the scene. “This remains an active scene with search and rescue operations continuing throughout the night,” the department stated.
Four individuals were recovered from the water. Two of them were transported to local hospitals for treatment, while two others were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are currently searching for the fifth person on board, who has not yet been accounted for.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn released a statement confirming she had been informed of the incident. “LA County Fire, Sheriff, Coast Guard, and Avalon Fire are on the scene,” Hahn said. “Search and rescue operations are underway and I am praying for everyone who was on board.”
California officials announced that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been notified and will lead the investigation into the cause of the crash.
These medevac flights are always risky. I hope the investigation reveals why this happened in the first place.
First responders are heroes. Glad they got three people out, but this is a tragedy for everyone involved.
How did it crash so quickly after takeoff? That’s terrifying. Hope the NTSB finds answers soon.
Praying for the missing person. This is absolutely heartbreaking news, especially with one still unaccounted for.