A medical evacuation helicopter crashed into the water off Pebbly Beach on Wednesday night, Sept. 30, claiming three lives and injuring two others, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the City of Avalon. The incident involved a REACH Air Medical Services helicopter and occurred shortly after its takeoff, near the Pebbly Beach Seaplane Base.
Five people were on board the Eurocopter EC135, which carried the registration number N313RX. The FAA's preliminary report indicated the crash happened at approximately 7:46 p.m., when the helicopter went into the water near Avalon, California. The FAA described the damage to the aircraft as "substantial." News reports noted that one of the five people aboard was initially missing, with the individual's body later recovered.
The FAA specified the casualties and injuries among those aboard: one member of the flight crew and one member of the cabin crew died. Of the survivors, one member of the cabin crew suffered serious injuries, one passenger sustained minor injuries, and another passenger's injuries were listed as "unknown." Two people aboard were injured and apparently taken for treatment following the crash.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate the incident. The NTSB will be in charge of the investigation and is designated to provide all updates as they become available.
The City of Avalon issued a statement extending its sincere condolences to everyone affected by the medical evacuation helicopter crash. The city expressed deep sadness over the tragic incident, conveying that its "hearts go out to the families, friends, and colleagues of those involved." The city confirmed it is in close communication with the responding agencies as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The City of Avalon acknowledged and thanked the first responders and emergency personnel for their swift and courageous actions during this difficult event. Specifically recognized were the City of Avalon Fire and Harbor Department, LA County Baywatch, Fire, Sheriff, and the United States Coast Guard. Their rapid response was credited with saving two individuals. The city also lauded their continued dedication to safeguarding the community, expressing profound appreciation for their efforts.
The day following the crash, REACH Air Medical Services released a statement via Facebook. The company indicated it was in the process of gathering information and coordinating with emergency responders and authorities. REACH stated that its thoughts were with the families, loved ones, and colleagues affected by this tragedy, and that the company was focused on supporting its team during "this incredibly difficult time." Due to the ongoing response and out of respect for those involved, REACH was "unable to share additional details at this time."
The City of Avalon stated its intention to share additional information as appropriate, once more details are learned. In the interim, the city asked the community to join in keeping all those impacted in their thoughts during this challenging time. The City of Avalon also requested that the public respect first responders and investigators as they continued recovery efforts.
