A small plane crash in Fullerton, California, left two people dead and 19 injured after it plunged into a bustling furniture warehouse on Thursday afternoon. The devastating incident occurred just moments after the aircraft took off from Fullerton Municipal Airport.
The single-engine Van’s Aircraft RV-10, a kit-built plane constructed in 2011, departed the airport at approximately 2 p.m. local time. Shortly after reaching an altitude of 900 feet, the pilot contacted air traffic control, requesting an emergency return to the runway.
“The request was granted, but the plane veered off course during its return, making a sharp 180-degree turn before crashing about 1,000 feet short of the runway,” said Elliot Simpson, an investigator with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The aircraft slammed into the 2300 block of Raymer Avenue, igniting a fire that consumed part of the warehouse. Workers inside described the chaos as debris and flames erupted.
Both fatalities were occupants of the plane, according to Fullerton Police. Nineteen individuals working inside the warehouse sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe. Eleven of them were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
“It was like a bomb went off,” said warehouse employee Miguel Hernandez, who suffered a minor arm injury. “We heard the explosion, and then everything shook. People started running everywhere.”
The Van’s Aircraft RV-10 is a popular kit-built model. Unlike factory-manufactured planes, these are assembled by private owners and undergo FAA inspections before being cleared to fly. Simpson emphasized that such planes are common and typically meet safety standards.
“At this stage, we don’t know what caused the pilot’s distress call,” Simpson added during a press briefing. “Our investigation will focus on mechanical failure, pilot error, and weather conditions.”
The impact triggered a large fire that consumed a significant portion of the warehouse. Michael Meacham of the Fullerton Fire Department confirmed that the blaze was brought under control within an hour but left extensive damage to the building.
“The speed of the response likely prevented further injuries,” Meacham noted. “Our teams worked quickly to evacuate the area and contain the fire.”
The incident has left the Fullerton community in shock. Mayor Diane Price expressed her condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tragedy. We stand ready to support them in any way we can.”
Residents gathered near the crash site, many recounting the eerie sight of thick black smoke billowing into the sky. “I’ve lived here for 20 years, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” said local resident Sarah Cho. “It’s heartbreaking.”
The NTSB’s investigation is expected to take weeks, if not months. Meanwhile, the community’s focus remains on supporting the injured and grieving families.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash to contact the Fullerton Police Department.
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