Six people are presumed dead after a plane crashed into the ocean off the San Diego coast Sunday afternoon.
The twin-engine Cessna 414 was carrying six occupants when it went down near Point Loma at around 12:30 p.m. Sunday, the Federal Aviation Administration said.
The doomed aircraft took off from San Diego, heading to Phoenix, when it slammed into the ocean about five miles offshore.
Officials said the pilot made a final call to air traffic controllers stating that he was struggling to maintain his heading as he flew just 1,000 feet above the water.
“A debris field has been located, but I do not currently have the size of it,” Coast Guard Petty Officer Ryan Graves said.
The FAA listed the former owner of the plane as Optimal Health Systems. The firm sold the aircraft to private buyers months ago.
Company founder Doug Grant said he knew several victims personally.
“Our sincerest condolences are offered to those affected by the tragedy,” Grant said.
