A Kenmore Air seaplane crashed near Sucia Island in Washington state on July 23, 2026, with all 11 people aboard rescued. The de Havilland DHC-3 Otter, en route from Seattle to Roche Harbor, went down in Shallow Bay around 5:15 p.m., prompting a multi-agency rescue operation.
The crash occurred just 45 minutes after the flight departed Lake Union in Seattle at 4:30 p.m., bound for Roche Harbor on San Juan Island. Coast Guard. Dramatic footage showed the plane scattered across rocks and water, with thick black smoke rising from the wreckage.
Rescue Efforts and Injuries
All 11 individuals aboard were accounted for, with two passengers transported to Bellingham hospitals and two others taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Coast Guard base. San Juan County Sheriff Eric Peter confirmed one injured passenger was in critical condition, with others suffering head injuries, broken bones, and lacerations.
It sounds dire at the moment when it's all evolving,
Peter said, emphasizing the urgency of the response. These are rapidly evolving scenes. Preservation of life is our number one goal.
The sheriff highlighted the challenges of emergency response in the San Juan Islands, where crews must mobilize quickly by boat or air.
Kenmore Air’s Response and Investigation
Kenmore Air CEO David Gudgel released a statement expressing gratitude to emergency responders and confirming the airline’s cooperation with investigators. We are grateful that everyone aboard has been accounted for, and our immediate focus is ensuring our passengers and pilot receive the care and support they need,
Gudgel said. The airline canceled all scheduled flights on Friday to prioritize support for victims, families, and emergency efforts.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with the U.S. No official explanation has been released, though the aircraft’s emergency landing suggests mechanical or environmental factors. Kenmore Air has not yet commented on potential causes, stating it will provide verified information as it becomes available.
Multi-Agency Coordination and Public Safety
The rescue involved collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies, including the U.S. The U.S. Coast Guard received initial reports around 5:25 p.m. and deployed search and rescue assets immediately. Officials emphasized the complexity of operations in the San Juan Islands, where remote locations and weather conditions can complicate emergency responses.
That's what's a little bit different about doing cop work up here in the islands is we do have the boats, we are spread out, and we have to have that mentality every day,
Peter said. If something goes wrong in the air or on the ocean, we need to be able to get to our assets quickly and get out to the scenes to try to save as many people as we can.
Aftermath and Next Steps
As of July 24, 2026, the focus remains on the recovery and medical care of those involved. Kenmore Air has not yet provided updates on the pilot’s condition or the status of the aircraft. Authorities continue to investigate the crash’s cause, with no indication of immediate safety risks to other flights. The airline’s decision to suspend operations underscores the gravity of the incident, though no long-term disruptions to regional air travel have been reported.
The incident highlights the risks of seaplane travel in remote areas and the critical role of rapid emergency response. With the San Juan Islands’ reliance on air and water transport, the crash underscores the need for ongoing safety assessments and preparedness. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
