The U.S. Coast Guard responded to an emergency situation Thursday evening, after a Kenmore Air floatplane made an emergency landing off the Washington coast and caught fire. The incident prompted a massive rescue operation, with multiple agencies working together to assist the passengers and pilot.
According to authorities, the plane made an emergency landing in North Beach Shallow Bay off Sucia Island before bursting into flames. The U.S. Coast Guard received a report of the incident around 5:25 p.m. local time. All 10 passengers and the pilot were accounted for, and multiple people suffered injuries ranging from head trauma to broken bones and lacerations.
Four passengers were taken to local hospitals for treatment, with one person reported to be in critical condition. Fortunately, no fatalities were immediately reported. The airline is working closely with investigators and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
A spokesperson for Kenmore Air said the aircraft involved was a de Havilland DHC-3 Otter operating near Sucia Island. The flight departed Seattle's Lake Union and was headed to Roche Harbor Marina on San Juan Island, a routine route for the airline. Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the U.S. Navy, air ambulance helicopters, and local fire and rescue units.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation. The airline and authorities will continue to work together to determine the cause of the emergency landing and fire. The passengers and pilot are receiving medical attention, and the airline is cooperating fully with the investigation.
