California helicopter crash kills two people and leaves two hospitalized

A medical helicopter crashed into the sea off the coast of Los Angeles, California, on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving another missing, according to local authorities. LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn confirmed that a medevac helicopter departing Catalina Island, a popular tourist destination, experienced the accident shortly after takeoff. Search and rescue operations were already underway, with Hahn expressing hope for the well-being of all those on board.

The crash occurred around 7:53 PM (local time) on Thursday, prompting a swift response from the fire department and other relevant authorities. Jonathan Torres, a spokesperson for the LA County Fire Department, informed the press that five people were on board the helicopter, with four of them located and in stable condition. Two of the five have been transported to nearby hospitals. The remaining missing person's fate remains unknown.

REACH Air Medical Services, the operator of the crashed helicopter, also acknowledged the incident, stating that one of their helicopters was involved. They have requested comment from AFP regarding the matter. In October 2025, a similar REACH medical helicopter crashed onto a California highway, critically injuring all three individuals on board, with one succumbing to their injuries.