A medical helicopter crashed Monday night on Highway 50 in Sacramento, critically injuring three people — including a woman who became trapped underneath the aircraft and was rescued with the help of motorists who lifted part of the fuselage, officials said.

Captain Justin Sylvia, spokesperson for the Sacramento Fire Department, said the helicopter had just dropped off a patient at a hospital and was returning to its base when it experienced an “in-air emergency” shortly after 7 p.m. The aircraft, which ended up flipped over, left a large debris field across the roadway.

On board were a pilot, a nurse, and a paramedic, all of whom were transported to local hospitals in critical condition. “It’s incredible that no one else was hurt, considering the helicopter went down right in the middle of the highway,” Sylvia said.

He added that one of the victims had been trapped beneath the helicopter and was freed thanks to the efforts of about 15 people, including motorists and firefighters. “We used every ounce of strength to lift the aircraft just enough to get her out alive,” he said.

The helicopter, identified as belonging to REACH Air Medical Services, did not catch fire after the crash. In a statement, the company said it was keeping the affected crew members in its thoughts and was working to determine details about the crash and their conditions.

The incident led to the full closure of the eastbound lanes of Highway 50, according to Officer Mike Carrillo, a spokesperson for the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Sacramento City Councilmember Lisa Kaplan, who was on a ride-along with law enforcement officers responding to the scene, described it as “sobering,” noting plumes of white smoke rising from the wreckage. “It’s an experience that makes you grateful for every day and for the bravery of our medical pilots and officers who risk their lives every single day,” she said.

Helicopter Crash

US HWY 50 at 59th St.

Crews responded to a helicopter down on EB US50 West of 59th St. On arrival, 3 victims from the aircraft were located in critical condition. No vehicles were involved, just the helicopter. pic.twitter.com/dXPyGQ5cEl

— Sacramento Fire Department (@SacFirePIO) October 7, 2025