On January 2, 2025, a small single-engine Van’s RV-10 plane crashed into a furniture manufacturing building in Fullerton, California, killing two people and injuring 18. The crash occurred shortly after the plane took off from Fullerton Municipal Airport around 2:15 PM local time.
The plane smashed through the roof of the building, which housed approximately 200 workers. Emergency responders arrived promptly, transporting ten individuals to nearby hospitals while treating others on-site. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with a fiery explosion and dense smoke engulfing the area.
Survivor Accounts
Several survivors recounted terrifying moments. Javier Ruiz, a witness, described the crash as “something out of a movie.” Security footage captured the explosion and smoke as workers scrambled to safety. Injuries ranged from minor to severe, with many hospitalized.
Local authorities quickly evacuated surrounding businesses and urged residents to stay away while firefighters extinguished the blaze. The Fullerton Police Department confirmed that swift evacuations minimized additional casualties. Congressman Lou Correa stated that many injured individuals were factory employees.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched an investigation into the crash. Initial reports suggest the pilot communicated with air traffic control about an emergency landing before the accident.