A REACH Air Medical Services helicopter crashed into the water off Santa Catalina Island on Wednesday evening, near Pebbly Beach close to the helipad, just after 7:50 p.m., according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Two people were killed and several others injured, according to City News Service.

U.S. Coast Guard personnel were also responding.

At least one of those aboard remains unaccounted for, while two others were transported in unknown condition and the additional two in stable condition. 

A Catalina local told KTLA by text that two people have been declared deceased, with one person remaining unaccounted for, though KTLA has to have that information verified by authorities.

“I have been informed that a medevac helicopter leaving Catalina Island has crashed shortly after takeoff. L.A. County Fire, Sheriff, Coast Guard, and Avalon Fire are on the scene,” Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn said on X. “Search and rescue operations are underway, and I am praying for everyone who was on board.”

Source: KTLA