On Saturday, a helicopter crash in Huntington Beach, California, left at least three people injured on the ground, according to reports from the local police department. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. in a parking lot adjacent to the beach. The Huntington Beach Police Department took to social media to provide updates on the situation, revealing that the helicopter made an emergency landing on what appeared to be a staircase leading to a pedestrian bridge.
Authorities confirmed that two individuals onboard the helicopter were extricated from the wreckage without serious injuries. However, three bystanders on the ground sustained injuries and were transported to a hospital for further evaluation. The police did not disclose the extent of the victims’ injuries, raising concerns within the community.
In light of the crash, local law enforcement urged residents to steer clear of the area along the Pacific Coast Highway between Huntington Street and Beach Boulevard for several hours, as emergency services responded to the scene. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been informed and are expected to conduct an investigation into the cause of the crash.
At the time of the incident, the helicopter was part of a promotional event called "Cars ‘N Copters on the Coast," scheduled for Sunday. This unique event showcases an array of hypercars and helicopters while benefiting the Huntington Beach Police and Community Foundation. Notably, a “VIP Helicopter Landing Party” was taking place on Saturday, just a block away from where the helicopter ultimately crashed.
Event organizers have not yet responded to inquiries regarding the crash, leaving many questions unanswered about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Eyewitness Tom Polkow recounted his experience while riding his bicycle along the beach when he noticed the helicopter flying unusually low. He described the aircraft as seemingly performing aerial maneuvers for onlookers at nearby hotels. “It just started spinning out of control and then went down on its side on a pedestrian staircase,” Polkow reported.
Polkow observed debris falling from the helicopter as it spiraled downward. Following the crash, he noted that a tree was snapped in two and the helicopter’s propellers were damaged. Despite the chaos, the helicopter's engine continued to run for some time, which raised alarms for onlookers. “After a while, it started smoking, and then started getting black and I moved,” he said, explaining his instinct to distance himself from the possible explosion. Firefighters arrived promptly to extinguish the flames.
The helicopter crash in Huntington Beach has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing their disbelief at witnessing such a dramatic event. Videos circulating on social media depict the helicopter spiraling uncontrollably as pedestrians rushed to safety. Emergency medical personnel were seen attending to those injured on the ground.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with aerial displays, even in festive contexts. As investigations begin, the community remains hopeful for the swift recovery of those injured and seeks clarity on what led to this alarming crash.
