Shortly after 4 pm this afternoon, a float plane operated by Seair Seaplanes, crashed into the waters of Lyall Harbour, off Saturna Island. Early reports indicate the plane crashed a short time after take off from Lyall Harbour. It was en route to Vancouver, with 8 passengers on board, including an infant. Local emergency crews, including members of the Outer Gulf Islands RCMP, responded to the scene, where a water search for survivors commenced.

The ongoing search is being coordinated by the Rescue Coordination Centre. Water and air craft from the Canadian Coast Guard, the RCMP’s West Coast Marine Service and local emergency services are actively involved. A land based coastline search is also underway.

2 adult survivors have been rescued from the water. Both are receiving medical treatment for undetermined injuries.

Further details of the rescued, and missing passengers cannot be shared at this early stage. Many family members have made contact with police, and search officials. We will focus on informing those family members first, as new details emerge. Any family members who have not yet made contact, are asked to call their nearest RCMP Detachment for assistance.

All available police resources on the Outer Gulf Islands, and additional resources from Vancouver Island Detachments, are committed to this search and rescue operation. Additional Police resources may be brought in throughout the night, as required.