News Summary
A small twin-engine Cessna 414 crashed off the coast of San Diego, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, including four members of the Bingham family. The aircraft went down shortly after takeoff from San Diego International Airport. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, which has raised concerns about flight safety for small aircraft in the area. The community mourns the loss of the victims, who were known for their kindness and community ties.
San Diego – A tragic plane crash off the coast of San Diego claimed the lives of six individuals on Sunday afternoon. The aircraft, a small twin-engine Cessna 414, went down in the ocean around 12:30 p.m. shortly after taking off from San Diego International Airport.
Four of the victims have been identified as members of the Bingham family from Arizona: Jeremy Bingham and his three adult sons, Bailey, Gavin, and Ayden. The crash also claimed the lives of the pilot and his pregnant wife, although their names have not yet been disclosed.
According to a verified GoFundMe campaign organized in their memory, Jeremy Bingham is survived by his wife and daughter. The campaign highlights Jeremy’s character as a “pillar of strength,” praised for his selflessness and generosity. The family had deep ties to the community, and the loss has struck a profound chord among those who knew them.
Bailey Bingham, who was a new father to a 9-month-old son, was looking forward to celebrating his first Father’s Day. Friends and family describe him as a loving father with a calm demeanor. Gavin Bingham was characterized as independent and soft-hearted, while Ayden was noted for his vibrant energy and ability to bring joy to those around him.
The small Cessna aircraft was reportedly en route to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport when it encountered troubles. Prior to the crash, the pilot communicated that he was struggling to maintain altitude and attempted to divert to a nearby naval air station, indicating an emergency situation.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that the exact circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation. Witnesses reported seeing the plane descend at an angle before crashing nose-first into the water approximately three miles west of Point Loma, where the depths reach around 200 feet.
Rescue crews initiated a thorough search, spanning over 300 square miles for nearly 35 hours. The operation involved multiple boats, helicopters, and personnel from the San Diego Harbor Police and the Coast Guard. Despite these efforts, there were no survivors.
The Cessna 414 had been sold to private owners earlier this year by Optimal Health Systems, LLC. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting a formal investigation into the crash to determine its cause and assess any factors that may have contributed to the fatal outcome.
This incident marks the second significant crash involving a Cessna in the San Diego region in recent weeks, raising concerns over flight safety and operational protocols for small aircraft.
As the Bingham family and the other victims are mourned by their community and families, the causes and circumstances of this tragic event remain a focus for the responsible agencies. The memories of those lost will linger in the hearts and minds of all those they touched, reminding us of the fragility of life and the impacts of sudden loss.
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Additional Resources
- AZ Family
- Wikipedia: Aviation Accidents and Incidents
- AVweb
- Google Search: Cessna 414 crash
- ABC 15
- Google Scholar: Plane Crash Investigation
- NBC San Diego
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aircraft Safety
- AZ Central
- Google News: Airplane Safety News
