Deadly Plane Crash Sets Multiple CA Homes on Fire
By David Hernandez and Teri Figueroa
Source The San Diego Union-Tribune
SANTEE, CA — Two people, including a UPS delivery driver, died when a small plane crashed into at least one home near Santana High School in Santee early Monday afternoon, sparking fires in the residential area, authorities said.
Santee Fire Chief John Garlow said a twin-engine plane crashed into at least one home and a box truck in a residential area at Greencastle and Jeremy streets, less than two-tenths of a mile east of the high school football field, on the eastern edge of the school.
Two people died, and two people who suffered burns were taken to a hospital, fire officials said.
The Cessna C340 crashed around 12:15 p.m. Pacific time, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. As of about 2 p.m., FAA officials said they did not know how many people were on board.
The plane was headed from Yuma, Arizona, to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Field — commonly called Montgomery Field — in San Diego, Santee Deputy Fire Chief Justin Matsushita said.
The crash and ensuing fire destroyed two homes. Matsushita said parts from the plane were strewn across 10 houses.
No one in the homes died in the crash. Matsushita said authorities were sending support for the fire crews who responded.
“The scene was pretty graphic,” he said.
Sheriff’s Department officials asked the public to avoid the area. They also closed two streets: Jeremy Street and North Magnolia Avenue are both closed between Second Street and Mast Boulevard.
A temporary evacuation point for people affected by the plane crash has been set up at the Cameron Family YMCA on Riverwalk Drive, sheriff’s officials said.
Santana High School officials tweeted that all students were “secure.”
San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chairman Nathan Fletcher issued a statement about the crash, saying the Office of Emergency Services has been activated, is monitoring the situation, and is stands ready to provide any needed support to the city of Santee.”
“A tragedy like this one can have a jarring effect on a community, and I want the people of Santee to know their county government is here to support them,” Fletcher said.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash. The Sheriff’s Department asked that anyone with photos or video of the crash to call (858) 565-5200 so they can pass along the images.
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