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Fullerton, California — A tranquil Thursday afternoon was shattered by tragedy as a small plane plunged into a warehouse near Fullerton Municipal Airport, leaving two people dead and at least 18 others injured. The harrowing incident occurred shortly after 2:00 p.m., transforming a quiet industrial area into a scene of chaos and devastation.
The single-engine Van’s RV-10 aircraft, a compact four-seat model, crashed into the roof of a furniture manufacturing facility on the 2300 block of West Raymer Avenue. Witnesses reported hearing a thunderous explosion followed by plumes of thick black smoke billowing from the building. Within moments, first responders and firefighters were on the scene, battling flames and evacuating nearby structures.
Immediate Aftermath
First reports of the incident described it as a structure fire, but the gravity of the situation became clear as aerial footage revealed a gaping hole in the roof of the warehouse. Charred debris littered the area, but there was no immediate sign of the plane itself, leading to speculation that it had disintegrated upon impact.
The fire, fueled by the crash, engulfed a significant portion of the building, forcing the evacuation of surrounding businesses. Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, while paramedics tended to the injured, many of whom were inside the warehouse at the time of the crash. Among the 18 injured, ten were transported to nearby hospitals, while eight others were treated at the scene for less severe injuries.
Victims and Investigation
Authorities have confirmed two fatalities, but details about the victims’ identities remain under wraps pending notification of their families. It is also unclear whether the deceased were aboard the aircraft or among those working in the building.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Preliminary data suggests the plane had taken off from Fullerton Municipal Airport less than two minutes before it went down. Questions linger about potential mechanical failures or pilot error that could have led to such a catastrophic outcome.
A History of Close Calls
This is not the first aviation mishap linked to the Fullerton Municipal Airport. In November 2024, a similar four-seat plane crash-landed into a tree during an emergency landing just after takeoff, leaving its two occupants with moderate injuries. The proximity of the airport to densely populated and industrial areas has raised concerns about the risks posed by frequent flights over the city.
Community Reacts
As news of the tragedy spread, the Fullerton community expressed grief and shock. “It’s horrifying to think something like this could happen so close to home,” said Maria Lopez, a local resident who works near the crash site. “I can’t imagine what the families of the victims are going through.”
City officials have pledged to support the ongoing investigation while offering condolences to those affected. Fullerton Mayor Linda Whitaker addressed the public, stating, “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We are committed to working with federal authorities to uncover the cause of this heartbreaking incident and to ensure the safety of our community.”
A Somber Reminder
Thursday’s crash is a grim reminder of the inherent risks of aviation, even in small-scale operations. For Fullerton, a city known for its close-knit community and bustling industrial areas, the scars of this tragedy will not fade easily. As investigators sift through the wreckage for answers, the community remains united in mourning and resilience, determined to ensure such a catastrophe is not repeated.