BREAKING NEWS Helicopter Crashes in California

Five people were hospitalized after a helicopter crashed in Huntington Beach, California, with dramatic footage showing the aircraft wedged between a palm tree and a building. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 11, near Twin Dolphins Drive and Beach Boulevard, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department (HBPD).

Authorities reported that two people aboard the helicopter were rescued from the wreckage, while three people on the ground were injured. All five were taken to the hospital, though the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.

Video shared on social media captured the helicopter flying unusually low before spinning and crashing near the 21500 block of Pacific Coast Highway, striking palm trees during its descent. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as emergency crews rushed to assist.

Another video posted on the Citizen app showed the helicopter lodged between the Hyatt Regency Hotel and a palm tree, further illustrating the force of the crash, according to ABC 7 Los Angeles.

Police confirmed that first responders and firefighters remained on-site for several hours, and a section of Pacific Coast Highway was temporarily closed while rescue and cleanup operations continued.

Officials have not yet determined the cause of the crash. The helicopter was reportedly associated with the upcoming Cars ‘N Copters on the Coast event scheduled for October 12, a community gathering featuring sports cars and helicopters.

Both the FAA and NTSB have been notified and are investigating the incident. Event organizers have not yet released a statement regarding the crash.