Heroic Rescue: Small Plane Crashes in Santa Barbara, Two Seriously Injured

A small private plane crashed near Highway 101 in Goleta, Santa Barbara County, leaving two people with major injuries. A California Highway Patrol officer and civilians rushed to the scene, rescuing the pilot and passenger before the plane erupted in flames. The FAA and NTSB are investigating.

On January 30, 2025, a small private aircraft crashed in an open field just north of the Storke Road offramp on Highway 101 in Goleta, Santa Barbara County. The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m., between Los Carneros Road and Storke Road, on the mountainside of the freeway. Witnesses reported seeing the plane come straight down before a parachute deployed, but it still crashed and caught fire.
California Highway Patrol Officer Ayala, who was making a traffic stop nearby, quickly responded to the scene. He jumped a chain-link fence and sprinted towards the burning wreckage. Spotting the severely injured pilot crawling out, Officer Ayala dragged him to safety just as an explosion erupted behind them, engulfing the plane in flames.
Two civilians also rushed to assist, helping to move the injured passengers to a safer location. The pilot and passenger were taken to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital for medical treatment. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash.
The quick thinking and bravery of Officer Ayala and the civilians involved averted a potential tragedy, showcasing their dedication to public safety and willingness to risk their lives to save others.

What happened during the plane crash?
The plane crashed in an open field near Highway 101, caught fire, and two people were seriously injured.
Who responded to the crash?
A California Highway Patrol officer and civilians rushed to the scene to rescue the injured.
What was the condition of the pilot and passenger?
They were severely injured and taken to the hospital for medical treatment.
What agencies are investigating the crash?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating.
How did the community respond to the rescue?
The community praised Officer Ayala and the civilians for their bravery and quick thinking in saving the lives of the injured passengers.

The plane crash in Santa Barbara highlights the importance of quick response and community involvement in emergency situations. The heroic actions of Officer Ayala and the civilians involved demonstrate the dedication to public safety and the willingness to risk lives to save others.