Overview
- A Reach Air Medical Services medevac helicopter plunged into the ocean shortly after departing Catalina Island on Wednesday night, according to county officials.
- Flight‑tracking data show the helicopter climbed to about 175 feet and then lost its signal within seconds of takeoff.
- Multiple agencies including LA County Fire, the Sheriff’s Department, Avalon Fire and the U.S. Coast Guard mounted a nighttime search with boats, helicopters and dive teams.
- Officials say five people were aboard; boat crews recovered three and Coast Guard units spotted two, while at least one person remained unaccounted for and divers continued searching.
- Some survivors have been taken to hospitals and authorities have not released a cause, with investigators set to review the flight plan, maintenance and on‑board data as the inquiry continues.