Two killed, one missing after medical helicopter crashes off Catalina Island

On October 1, 2026, a REACH Air Medical Services helicopter crashed offshore of Catalina Island resulting in two fatalities and one individual remaining unaccounted for. The aircraft was conducting routine patient transport operations at the time of the incident. Authorities confirmed that both deceased individuals were passengers aboard the helicopter during its descent. Search and rescue efforts are currently underway involving local law enforcement agencies and Coast Guard personnel. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine the cause and contributing factors involved with this tragic event.