Los Angeles, California - Emergency services were searching Thursday for a fifth person who had been aboard a medical helicopter that crashed off the California coast, killing two people and injuring two others.
The chopper came down Wednesday night after taking off from Catalina Island, a popular getaway from nearby Los Angeles, the fire department said.
Four people were plucked from the water after the accident. Two were pronounced dead at the scene, and two others were airlifted to a hospital.
Coast Guard officials said they had sent vessels to the area, including a submersible, to assist in the hunt for the fifth person.
REACH Air Medical Services confirmed that one of its helicopters was involved in the crash.
"This is an incredibly difficult situation, and our hearts are with everyone affected by this tragedy," the company said in a statement on Thursday.
"Our priority is to support the families and loved ones of those directly affected and to ensure they are given the time, care and respect they deserve before we share additional information."
In October 2025, a REACH medical helicopter crashed onto a California highway, critically wounding all three people aboard, with one later dying of her injuries.