Helicopter crashes off Catalina Island with 5 people aboard

An air ambulance helicopter crashed into the ocean off Catalina Island Wednesday night just seconds after departing Avalon, sending crews racing to the scene with five people reportedly aboard.The REACH helicopter took off at 7:46 p.m.and climbed to 175 feet before descending, according to ADS-B data cited by Squawk.Its signal disappeared eight seconds after takeoff, according to Squawk.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story The Los Angeles County Fire Department dispatched helicopters and divers around 7:50 p.m.

after receiving reports of a helicopter down near the island, CBS reported.The incident was specifically reported near Pebbly Beach, according to NBC.A Coast Guard MH-60 also responded.At least three of these individuals were pulled directly from the aircraft and the water, according to NBC.As of 8:40 p.m., no one had been transported, LA County Fire said.LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn released a statement regarding the ongoing incident: “I have been informed that a medevac helicopter leaving Catalina Island has crashed shortly after takeoff.LA County Fire, Sheriff, Coast Guard, and Avalon Fire are on the scene.

Search and rescue operations are underway and I am praying for everyone who was on board.”LA County Fire said the helicopter’s flight plan was unclear Wednesday night as the rescue operation continued off Catalina.California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedInCalifornia Post Sports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, XCalifornia Post Opinion California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!California Post App: Download here!Home delivery: Sign up here!Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!...