Pacific Grove, Calif. — July 27, 2025
Authorities have confirmed that three bodies were recovered following the crash of a small plane off the coast of Pacific Grove, California, on the night of July 26. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) recovered the bodies early on July 27, according to local news reports from KION and KSBW. The names of the victims have not yet been released pending official identification and notification of next of kin.
Incident Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that a Beechcraft BE55 aircraft, tail number N8796R, was declared missing late Friday evening. According to FAA preliminary information, three individuals were on board the twin-engine aircraft when it disappeared from radar near Pacific Grove.
Flight tracking data from FlightAware indicates the plane departed from San Carlos Airport at approximately 10:11 p.m. PT on July 26, en route to Monterey Regional Airport. The flight path shows that the plane approached Monterey but then appeared to reverse course over the coastal town of Pacific Grove. The aircraft’s last known position was recorded around 10:37 p.m. PT.
Shortly after the plane lost contact, Cal Fire received reports from witnesses who said they heard a plane engine revving unusually before a loud splash, suggesting the aircraft may have plunged into the ocean.
Search and Recovery Efforts
Emergency response was initiated promptly. The U.S. Coast Guard launched an air and sea search operation through the night. By the morning of July 27, recovery crews had located and retrieved the bodies of all three individuals presumed to have been on the aircraft.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office and USCG Pacific Area Command have not yet officially confirmed the identities of the deceased, but coordination is ongoing with federal investigators and local officials.
Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation into the cause of the crash. In accordance with standard procedure, the FAA will support the NTSB’s efforts. Investigators will analyze flight data, air traffic control communication, weather conditions, and witness statements to determine what led to the tragic accident.
No mayday call or distress signal from the aircraft has been publicly reported. The Beechcraft BE55 is a light twin-engine aircraft commonly used for private flights and is known for its reliability under standard operating conditions.
Community Impact
The crash has shocked the local communities of Pacific Grove and Monterey County, especially as it occurred close to populated coastal areas. Local authorities have expressed condolences to the families affected and assured the public that safety and recovery efforts are being prioritized.
More details will be provided as they become available. This remains a developing story.
Sources:
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)
- KION, KSBW News
- FlightAware
- Cal Fire
- National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)