In a devastating incident, three individuals lost their lives when a small private plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Pacific Grove, California, on Saturday night, according to authorities. The aircraft involved in the crash was identified as a Beech 95-B55 Baron, which took off from San Carlos Airport, located approximately 25 miles south of San Francisco, shortly after 10 p.m.
Based on data from Flightradar24, a reliable platform that tracks flight paths and aircraft locations, the plane was airborne for approximately 30 minutes before the tragic accident occurred. The crash site was determined to be around 200 to 300 yards from Point Pinos, situated on the southwestern edge of Monterey Bay, as reported by the U.S. Coast Guard on Sunday.
Authorities in Monterey County notified the Coast Guard about the crash just before 11 p.m. The Coast Guard responded promptly, locating the aircraft and the three passengers aboard. Petty Officer Ryan Graves from the Coast Guard's public affairs office in San Francisco provided updates on the rescue operation.
As of Sunday afternoon, there was no immediate information regarding the identities of the victims. The plane was approaching its intended destination, Monterey Regional Airport, which is located near the bay and just a few miles east of Pacific Grove, approximately 120 miles south of San Francisco.
The rescue operation included a coordinated effort from various agencies, including a Coast Guard helicopter, rescue boats from Cal Fire and Monterey County, as well as units from the Pacific Grove Police Department and Monterey County. Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with aviation. As the investigation unfolds, more details about the incident and the victims may come to light.
