Two people were killed, two others were injured, and a fifth remained missing after a medical rescue helicopter crashed near Catalina Island on Wednesday evening, authorities said.
The Airbus H-135 helicopter with five people on board went down about 7:50 p.m. Sept. 30 in the water near Pebbly Beach, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
It had just taken off from the island prior to the crash, Los Angeles County Fire Department officials said.
Resources including a Coast Guard helicopter and rescue boats from both the Coast Guard and fire department were immediately sent to the scene.
"Four individuals were recovered from the water," according to a USCG statement. "Two of the individuals were transferred to a hospital on the mainland, and two were pronounced
deceased."
"One individual is still unaccounted for, and the search remains ongoing," the statement added.
A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board described both people killed in the crash as crew members. Another crew member was seriously hurt.
One passenger suffered injuries described as minor. The missing person was also listed as a passenger.
Federal Aviation Administration records show the aircraft was registered to Santa Rosa-based Reach Air Medical Services.
The company said it was still gathering information and coordinating with authorities.
"Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones and colleagues affected by this tragedy," Reach Air Medical Services said in a written statement. We are focused on supporting our team and everyone impacted during this incredibly difficult time. Out of respect for those involved and the ongoing response, we are unable to share additional details at this time."
No further details, including a possible cause of the crash, were available.
The NTSB was leading the investigation.
(This story will be updated as additional information becomes available.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: 2 dead, 2 injured, 1 missing after Catalina medical helicopter crash
