Pilot Killed In Catalina Medevac Crash Flew President's Marine One

AVALON, CA — The pilot of the medical evacuation helicopter, which crashed off the coast of Santa Catalina Island killing three on Wednesday, served as a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter pilot and flew the presidential helicopter, Marine One.

The three people killed included pilot Steven Robinson, flight nurse Jessica DeVries, and Catalina Hernandez, REACH Medical Air Services confirmed.

Robinson's family described him as a devoted husband, father and friend who made those around him feel valued, supported and cared for, and said they are "grateful for the example he set and the extraordinary impact he had on so many lives."

DeVries was described by her family as a true hero, a devoted mother, and an extraordinary woman whose strength, compassion and kindness touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

They said she was passionate about her work and helping others during their greatest times of need, adding that her unwavering spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched.

The helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff just before 8 p.m. on Wednesday, near Avalon on Catalina Island.

Four people were pulled from the dark water after the crash — with two pronounced dead at the scene, and two others were airlifted to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

Ordinary people jumped into the ocean off Catalina Island to help rescue victims of a medical helicopter crash that killed three people. As new details emerge about the frantic response to the disaster, authorities identified the crash victims.

"Random citizens" were among those who entered the water Wednesday night and tried to save the five people aboard the REACH Air Medical Services helicopter, Los Angeles County Lifeguard Battalion Chief AJ Lester told KTLA.

Baywatch Avalon Capt. Brian Lanich and Ocean Lifeguard Specialist Chris Maloney, both with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, pulled the two survivors to shore, according to KTLA. Crews from Baywatch Isthmus in Two Harbors, Avalon Fire and harbor personnel also worked to save the Robinson and DeVries, who were in cardiac arrest.
Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Airbus H-135 medical helicopter had taken off from the Oceanside Fire Department helipad in San Diego County at 6:40 p.m. Wednesday and arrived on the island before going down shortly after taking off for the return trip, flight-tracking data shows.

The body of Hernandez, 45, was recovered around 5:44 p.m. on Thursday by divers from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

Hernandez was identified by family members as the last person aboard the helicopter that was still missing. She was described as a mother of three and a housekeeper on the island.

Divers with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department recovered Hernandez's body from the helicopter wreckage Thursday evening, ending an extensive search of the waters around Catalina. The Coast Guard said crews searched more than 156 square miles over 23 hours, according to The Associated Press.

A remotely operated vehicle located the helicopter on the ocean floor at a depth of 218 feet, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone told reporters. Underwater cameras showed the aircraft largely intact, with Hernandez still inside, according to KTLA.

Brad Sparks, a recovering crew member of the flight, was described as a compassionate and dedicated professional known for his kindness, easygoing nature, and genuine care for his patients.

His family said that outside of work, Sparks is devoted to his family and enjoys cycling, spending time outdoors and supporting dog-rescue efforts. They added that he has shown incredible strength and resilience throughout his recovery.

"In the days ahead, our focus will remain on caring for our people, supporting their families and honoring the lives and service of those we have lost," REACH Air Medical Services said in a statement, according to the AP.

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City News Service and Patch Staffer Scott Snowden contributed to this report.