Aircraft Crash in Sycamore Preserve brings Multi-Agency Response

Sycamore Preserve-

On Saturday, December 29th, 2012, at 10:26 a.m., the Lakeside Fire Protection District received a call that an aircraft had crashed and was on a hillside above the Slaughterhouse Canyon area. A rescue response was dispatched which included three structural engines, a rescue company, and ALS medic unit, and a chief officer. While enroute to the call, crews received additional information from hikers who witnessed the crash and were able to give a detailed location of the plane. In addition, CALFIRE initiated a response to the incident.

Firefighters use ropes to secure the plane.

Both ASTREA, and Copter 10 arrived in the area and quickly located the plane. Crew members from the copter made foot access to the site and soon reported the grim findings that there were no survivors. They also reported that the plane was unstable and could slide further down into the canyon.

Firefighters work with staff from the Medical Examiners office to remove the victims.

Firefighters from Lakeside Engine 1 (Riverview Station), and Engine 2 (Riverpark Station) made access to the area and determined that Rescue 3 would be needed to secure the aircraft. Lakeside Division Chief Chuck Tockstein assumed incident commander and started coordinating with other agencies. With the assistance of two CALFIRE engine companies, Rescue 3 made access through the Sycamore Preserve.

Firefighters worked to secure the aircraft on the hillside with rope systems. Crew members used power tool to assist the Medical Examiner with the task of extricating the victims from the plane. At 3:30 p.m., crews had completed their operations and turned the scene over to the Sheriff's department.

Lakeside Fire was assisted by CALFIRE and the Santee Fire Department.

Submitted By: Fire Captain Mark Grow, Lakeside Fire District
Photos By: Division Chief Chuck Tockstein, Lakeside Fire District