Local News
Pilot and his teen daughter killed as plane hits SoCal warehouse in Fullerton, injuring 19 people
The aircraft involved was identified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a single-engine Van’s RV-10, a four-seat, kit-built plane constructed in 2011.
A tragic plane crash near Fullerton Municipal Airport on Thursday claimed the lives of two individuals and left 19 others injured after a small aircraft slammed into a warehouse, igniting a massive fire.
Authorities confirmed that the pilot and his 16-year-old daughter were killed in the crash. Their identities have not yet been released.
The crash occurred just after 2:00 PM when the single-engine Van’s RV-10 aircraft struck a furniture warehouse located in the 2300 block of Raymer Avenue.
Witnesses reported seeing the plane dive into the building, tilted on its side, followed by a fiery explosion and a towering plume of thick black smoke visible from miles away.
Emergency personnel from the Fullerton Fire Department and Police Department quickly arrived on the scene.
The resulting four-alarm fire prompted the evacuation of dozens of workers from the warehouse. Firefighters battled the intense flames, eventually extinguishing the blaze.
According to Michael Meacham, spokesperson for the Fullerton Fire Department, 19 people sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Of those injured, 11 were transported to local hospitals, while the remaining eight were treated at the scene and released.
One video captured during the incident showed a person running from the burning building with their arm engulfed in flames.
Security footage captured the horrifying moment when the aircraft collided with the building, causing a fiery explosion. The footage shows the plane descending rapidly and striking the warehouse at an angle.
The aircraft involved was identified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a single-engine Van’s RV-10, a four-seat, kit-built plane constructed in 2011.
Eliot Simpson, an investigator with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), provided preliminary details on the crash trajectory.
The plane took off from Runway 24 at Fullerton at approximately 2:07 PM.
Shortly after reaching an altitude of 900 feet, the pilot issued a distress call requesting an immediate return to the airport.
Air traffic control cleared the pilot to land on any runway.
The plane attempted a 180-degree turn but crashed approximately 1,000 feet short of Runway 24.
Simpson stated that the NTSB will release a preliminary report within 14 days, with a final report expected within 12 to 18 months.
The FAA and NTSB are leading the investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Early findings indicate that the plane caught fire immediately upon impact with the building.
This tragic incident has raised questions about air safety in the vicinity of the airport and the potential risks posed to densely populated areas nearby. Authorities continue to work diligently to uncover the factors contributing to this devastating event.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.