Tragic Plane Crash Claims Six Lives off San Diego
A small aircraft, identified as a twin-engine Cessna 414, tragically went down off the coast of San Diego on Sunday, resulting in the loss of all six individuals aboard. The plane reportedly met its fate shortly after takeoff at approximately 12:30 PM, as confirmed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Flight tracking data from FlightAware.com shows that the aircraft was returning to Phoenix after a previous flight originating from Arizona. Search and rescue teams were mobilized and located a debris field about five miles from Point Loma, a coastal neighborhood in San Diego. The water in this particular area is reported to be around 200 feet deep.
Investigation Underway
While the FAA confirmed that all six occupants perished in the incident, their identities remain undisclosed pending further investigation. The Cessna was previously owned by Optimal Health Systems, a company based in Pima, Arizona, known for its vitamin and nutritional supplements. However, a representative from the company stated that the plane was sold to private individuals in 2023, which suggests the FAA’s records may not reflect the current ownership.
Doug Grant, founder of Optimal Health Systems, expressed his heartfelt condolences, noting, “We personally know several of the passengers onboard and our sincerest condolences are offered to those affected by the tragedy, all of whom are incredible members of our small community.”
On-Site Response and Findings
Authorities have referred inquiries regarding the aircraft’s ownership to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which has yet to release additional information about the crash. The San Diego Harbor Police have also been instrumental, employing sonar technology to assist in locating the crash site.
Upon receiving the distress call, the U.S. Coast Guard dispatched multiple rescue teams, including two helicopters and several vessels, to the area. They discovered an oil sheen and some debris on the water’s surface. Any debris first recovered by lifeguards was subsequently handed over to Coast Guard officials for further analysis.
| Incident Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Crash | June 8, 2025 |
| Aircraft Model | Cessna 414 |
| Occupants | 6 |
| Search Depth | 200 feet |
| Search Area | 5 miles off San Diego |
According to air traffic control audio released by LiveATC.net, the pilot struggled to maintain altitude and heading, initially attempting to make a safe return to shore. Unfortunately, the situation escalated, and the pilot signaled a “Mayday” distress call before contact was lost, leading to an emergency response.
Eyewitness Tyson Wislofsky, who was surfing nearby at the time, vividly described the crash scenario, stating, “The next time he came out of the clouds, he went straight into the water.” His account added a chilling perspective to the overwhelming tragedy.
This incident follows a similar tragedy just weeks prior, where another small Cessna crashed in a foggy San Diego neighborhood, also resulting in the loss of six lives.
