A small plane crashed into a commercial building near Fullerton Municipal Airport in California on Thursday afternoon, leaving at least two people dead and injuring 18 others, according to police. The incident occurred roughly 25 miles southeast of Los Angeles, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The Fullerton Police Department confirmed the fatalities in a post on X, adding that 10 people were transported to the hospital while eight others received treatment at the scene. Authorities have yet to determine if the deceased were aboard the aircraft or inside the building at the time of the crash.
Scene of the Incident
The single-engine Van’s RV-10, a four-seat aircraft, struck the building with significant force, creating a large hole in its roof and sending plumes of smoke into the sky. Television footage captured the aftermath, showing emergency responders working at the site as smoke billowed from the structure.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene. Jerome Cruz, an employee inside the building, recounted the terrifying moment to CBS News. “All we hear is like a loud noise, boom, and that’s it. Then we started running out,” he said.
Ongoing Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the crash. Initial details identify the aircraft as a Van’s RV-10, a model known for its recreational use.
Authorities are focusing on determining the cause of the crash and whether any mechanical failure or pilot error contributed to the tragedy.
History of Incidents Near Fullerton Airport
This is not the first aviation accident near Fullerton Municipal Airport in recent months. In November, another crash in the area injured two people, raising concerns about safety in the vicinity of the airport.
Community Impact
The crash has sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents and workers expressing shock and concern. Emergency services were quick to respond, mitigating the impact and providing medical assistance to the injured.
The names of the deceased and those injured have not yet been released, pending notification of their families.
Next Steps
As investigations continue, officials are urging the public to avoid the area to allow first responders and investigators to work uninterrupted. More details about the cause of the crash and the identities of the victims are expected in the coming days.
The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the risks associated with aviation and the importance of stringent safety measures.
