Medical Helicopter Crashes Off Catalina Island, Killing Two, One Missing
A REACH Air Medical Services helicopter went down in the ocean shortly after taking off from Catalina Island, prompting a large-scale rescue effort.
A medical helicopter crashed into the ocean off the coast of Catalina Island on September 30, resulting in two fatalities, one missing person, and two injured.
The REACH Air Medical Services helicopter had departed from Oceanside in San Diego County and landed on Catalina Island around 7:04 p.m. It crashed shortly after taking off from a helipad near Avalon.
Witness audio captured the urgency of the situation, with a caller telling dispatchers, "This is a helicopter crash by water. We do have survivors in the water."
Rescuers, including the U.S. Coast Guard, LA County Fire, and Sheriff's departments, were on the scene. U.S. Coast Guard Cmdr. Mark Leahey stated that search conditions were ideal, but the scattered wreckage and fuel in the water presented challenges.
The company that operates the helicopter, REACH Air Medical Services, confirmed they are gathering information and coordinating with emergency responders. "Our immediate concern is for the well-being of those involved," a spokesperson said.
LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, representing Catalina Island, acknowledged the incident, stating that search and rescue operations were underway and expressing prayers for those on board.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.