A medical helicopter carrying five people crashed into the water off Catalina Island, California, on Wednesday evening, killing two people on board and injuring two others. A search is underway for the fifth person.
Rescue operation ongoing
The Los Angeles County Fire Department described the scene as active, with search and rescue operations continuing through the night. Of the four people rescued from the water, two were taken to hospital and two were pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials respond
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn said in a statement that a medevac helicopter leaving Catalina Island had crashed shortly after takeoff. She confirmed that LA County Fire, Sheriff, Coast Guard, and Avalon Fire were on the scene, adding that search and rescue operations were underway.
The National Transportation Safety Board has been informed of the crash.
