Tragedy in the Skies: Small Plane Crash Off California Coast Claims 3 Lives
A small plane crashed in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California over the weekend, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals. The incident occurred near Point Pinos in Monterey County, where emergency crews responded swiftly to reports of the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board has confirmed their investigation into the cause of the crash.
The victims of the crash were identified as Steve Eugene Clatterbuck, 60, of Salinas; James Vincent, 36, of Monterey; and Jamie Lee Tabscott, 44, of Monterey. Flight tracking data from FlightAware.com indicated that the Beechcraft B-95-B55 had departed from the San Carlos airport at 10:11 p.m. and was last seen at 10:36 p.m. near Monterey. Witnesses reported hearing the plane circling at a low altitude before a ‘thump’ was heard, leading to the crash.
An eyewitness recounted hearing the plane circling at a low altitude for about 30 seconds before the crash, with video footage revealing debris scattered along the shoreline. Emergency response efforts, including Coast Guard boats and helicopters, local law enforcement, and fire agencies, launched a search operation that lasted over 13 hours, covering approximately 346 miles of trackline over an area of about 100 square miles.
The first body was recovered by a fire boat crew just after 3 a.m. Sunday, with the other two victims found inside the fuselage of the aircraft between 6:30 a.m. and 9:10 a.m. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash, and the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has noted that the victims’ families have requested privacy during this time. They have also expressed gratitude for the community’s support.
The incident has sparked discussions about aviation safety and emergency response procedures. While no immediate financial effects are expected, the tragedy underscores the importance of continued investigations and support for the victims’ families.