Two dead, several injured after medical helicopter crashes off Santa Catalina Island

AVALON (CNS) - Two people were killed and several others were injured following a medical helicopter crash off Santa Catalina Island Wednesday night.

Fire crews and U.S. Coast Guard personnel responded around 7:55 p.m. Wednesday after receiving reports of a downed aircraft, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department.  

The department initially told City News Service at least four victims were rescued and taken to a hospital, with two victims expected to be in stable condition.

KABC reported just after 10:30 p.m. that a pilot and flight nurse were killed.

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.

— Janice Hahn (@SupJaniceHahn) October 1, 2026

No other information about the crash was immediately released.