A seaplane carrying 11 people crashed off the coast of Washington state near Sucia Island on Sunday, resulting in multiple injuries, including one critically.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local authorities confirmed the incident occurred around 5:20 p.m. local time. The aircraft, a DeHavilland DHC-3 seaplane operated by Kenmore Air, departed from Lake Union in Seattle with 10 passengers and one pilot.

According to the San Juan County Sheriff's Office, all individuals aboard the seaplane were rescued from the water. The injuries sustained ranged from head injuries to broken bones and lacerations, with one person requiring critical care. Four injured passengers were transported to hospitals, while the remaining passengers were taken to the Bellingham Coast Guard Station.

Kenmore Air stated that its immediate focus is on providing care and support to the passengers and pilot. The company extended its gratitude to the U.S. Coast Guard, local emergency responders, and all those who assisted in the rescue efforts. Kenmore Air is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation into the cause of the crash.

The crash triggered a significant emergency response involving multiple agencies. The U.S. Navy assisted by airlifting some individuals from the scene, while the Coast Guard received a report of the seaplane making an emergency landing before catching fire. Sheriff Eric Peter noted that civilian boaters were the first to reach the scene and began aiding in the rescue.

Upon arrival, authorities found the seaplane on fire and beginning to sink. The swift actions of those involved in the rescue are credited with preventing a worse outcome.

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations to determine the cause of the seaplane crash. Details regarding the specific circumstances leading to the emergency landing and subsequent crash are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with aviation, particularly in challenging coastal environments. The focus remains on the recovery of those injured and understanding the factors that led to the crash.