Local News
Multiple people dead after plane crashes into San Diego neighborhood
San Diego, CA – Multiple occupants aboard a private plane that crashed into a San Diego neighborhood early Thursday have died, according to authorities.
Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy stated during a news conference that investigators are working to determine whether the aircraft struck a power line prior to impact.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported on the ground.
San Diego police and fire officials noted that the aircraft, a Cessna 550, is capable of carrying eight to ten people, though the exact number of passengers onboard at the time of the crash has not yet been confirmed.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the twin-engine aircraft went down at approximately 3:45 a.m. near Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport.
The crash occurred in the area of Sculpin Street and Santo Road, a densely populated section of the Tierrasanta neighborhood.
The impact of the crash set approximately 15 homes and multiple vehicles ablaze.
Authorities immediately began evacuating residents across several blocks, citing the widespread presence of jet fuel and the risk of further explosions.
“We have jet fuel all over the place,” said San Diego Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy during a morning press briefing. “Our main goal is to search all these homes and get everybody out right now.” He described the incident as involving “a direct hit to multiple homes” and noted that emergency crews were contending with “a gigantic debris field.”
Visibility at the time of the crash was severely limited. “It was very foggy. You could barely see in front of you,” Eddy added, underscoring the challenging conditions faced by first responders during the initial rescue and firefighting efforts.
Emergency crews from the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, San Diego Police Department, and other agencies remain on scene conducting search and rescue operations and assessing structural damage.
Nearby residents described being jolted awake by the impact. Christopher Moore, who lives one street from the crash site, said he and his wife were awakened by a loud explosion.
“We looked outside and saw smoke. We grabbed our kids and ran,” Moore recalled. “As we were leaving, we passed a car that was completely engulfed in flames. It was horrifying, but we just focused on getting to safety.”
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.
The NTSB will take the lead in the probe, officials said.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area as emergency operations continue.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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.