A devastating helicopter crash in Huntington Beach, California, left two people trapped in the wreckage and three others injured on the ground Saturday afternoon, according to city officials.
The crash occurred near the beach, not far from the intersection of Magnolia Street and Pacific Coast Highway, shortly after 2:00 p.m. Witnesses said the helicopter appeared to lose control before striking a row of palm trees and a nearby structure. Photos from the scene show the wreckage wedged between the trees, with debris scattered across the sand and sidewalk.
Emergency crews from the Huntington Beach Fire Department arrived within minutes. A fire truck and several firefighters were seen working to secure the area and extract the trapped occupants. “Our teams immediately began rescue operations,” said a city spokesperson in a statement. “Two individuals were pulled from the helicopter and transported to local trauma centers. Three others on the ground suffered injuries and were treated by paramedics.”
Officials described the two occupants’ conditions as serious but stable as of Saturday evening. The three injured bystanders, including one beachgoer who was struck by debris, were treated for minor to moderate injuries.
Witnesses described the chaotic moments leading up to the crash. “It was spinning and making this horrible grinding noise,” said Huntington Beach resident Laura Meza, who was walking nearby. “Then it hit the trees, and you could see dust and debris flying. Everyone started running.”
The downed aircraft, a privately owned helicopter, appeared to have clipped several palm trees before crashing into a small structure near the beachside walkway. Firefighters worked for nearly an hour to stabilize the wreckage and ensure there was no risk of further collapse or fire.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have both launched investigations into the cause of the crash. Preliminary information suggests a possible mechanical issue, though officials stressed that the investigation is still in its early stages.
Huntington Beach Mayor Kim Carr released a statement thanking first responders for their swift and coordinated efforts. “This was a frightening scene, and we are incredibly grateful for the professionalism and courage of our fire and police personnel,” Carr said. “Their actions prevented this tragedy from becoming much worse.”
By early evening, crews had secured the crash site and cleared most of the debris, though sections of the beach and nearby streets remained closed as investigators documented evidence. Power was temporarily shut off in parts of the area as a precaution due to damage to overhead lines.
As the community comes to terms with the incident, residents have expressed both shock and gratitude that more lives weren’t lost. “It’s scary to think how many people were walking or biking right there,” said witness Brian Keller. “It could have been so much worse.”
Authorities are expected to release further updates as federal investigators complete their initial review of the helicopter’s flight path and maintenance records.
