By Harshit | October 7, 2025 | Sacramento, California |
Sacramento Medical Helicopter Crash Shuts Down Highway 50
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A Sacramento medical helicopter crash on Highway 50 Thursday evening left three crew members critically injured and caused massive traffic disruptions across the city.
According to the Sacramento Fire Department, the helicopter, operated by REACH Air Medical Services, went down shortly after 6 p.m. on the eastbound lanes of Highway 50 near Highway 99. On board were a pilot, a flight nurse, and a paramedic — no patients were being transported. All three were rushed to hospitals in critical condition.
Bystanders Rescue Trapped Crew Member
Officials said one of the crew was pinned under the wreckage. In a dramatic moment, about 15 bystanders helped first responders lift the downed helicopter to free the trapped individual.
“That quick action made all the difference,” a Sacramento Fire spokesperson said. “It was a remarkable show of courage and community effort in an extremely dangerous situation.”
Despite the severity of the crash, authorities confirmed no fire broke out and no other vehicles were struck.
Traffic Chaos After Sacramento Helicopter Crash
The Sacramento medical helicopter crash caused major gridlock. Caltrans reported full closures on eastbound Highway 50, along with northbound Highway 99 to eastbound 50 and southbound Highway 51 to eastbound 50 ramps. Westbound lanes also faced partial closures.
Councilmember Lisa Kaplan shared photos on social media of the gridlock and emergency vehicles at the site. Caltrans cameras showed miles of backed-up traffic during rush hour.
REACH Air Responds to Sacramento Crash
REACH Air Medical Services issued a statement after the Sacramento crash:
“We are aware of an accident involving a REACH Air Medical helicopter on Highway 50 in Sacramento this evening and are keeping all those impacted in our thoughts and prayers.”
The company said all three crew members were taken to area hospitals and confirmed there was no patient on board.
FAA and NTSB Launch Investigation
The FAA and NTSB will lead the investigation into the Sacramento helicopter crash. Causes under review include potential mechanical issues, flight data, and operating conditions.
Experts note that while rare, medical air crews face higher risks due to urgent flights, variable weather, and nighttime operations.
Sacramento Community Reacts
The Sacramento community expressed support online, calling the injured crew members heroes.
“This is devastating,” one resident wrote. “These crews save lives every single day. We’re praying for them.”
As of late Thursday night, all three remained in critical condition. Officials warned traffic impacts would continue into Friday morning as crews investigated and cleared debris.
“This is a developing story,” Sacramento Fire officials said
