Emergency responders launched a search and rescue mission late Wednesday after a medical helicopter plunged into the ocean off the coast of Catalina Island. The Los Angeles County Fire Department reported receiving initial calls regarding the crash around 7:50 p.m.
Authorities confirmed that five individuals were on board the aircraft, which belonged to Reach Air Medical Services. According to the LA County Sheriff’s Department, two passengers were transported to a hospital on Catalina Island, while two others were flown to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Deputies stated that the condition of all patients is currently unknown.
As of 9:40 p.m., officials indicated that a fifth person had not yet been accounted for, prompting ongoing rescue operations. Flight tracking data revealed that the helicopter departed from Oceanside in San Diego County at 6:40 p.m. and made an intermediate landing on Catalina Island at 7:04 p.m.
LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn shared updates on social media, writing that the aircraft crashed shortly after departing the island approximately an hour later. “Search and rescue operations are underway and I am praying for everyone who was on board,” Hahn posted on X.
A representative for Reach Air Medical Services acknowledged the incident but declined to provide additional details, stating in a release that their immediate priority is the well-being of those involved. The flight plan for the helicopter remains unclear as investigations continue.
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I live nearby and heard the noise. Feels unreal that this happened just off the coast.
Catalina waters can get rough fast. Search and rescue teams are heroes for working those conditions.
Glad two survived with transport to UCLA. Hope the fifth is found safe soon.
How does a medical chopper crash so quickly after takeoff? The investigation needs to be thorough.
Praying for the missing person. It must be terrifying out there in the dark water tonight.