BREAKING: Small Plane Crashes Off East Haven Coast — One Rescued, One Missing as Massive Search Underway

EAST HAVEN, CT (June 1, 2025) – A dramatic emergency response is unfolding off the coast of East Haven after a small aircraft crashed into the Long Island Sound, approximately six miles southeast of Tweed New Haven Airport. The aircraft, which was carrying two individuals, went down late Sunday afternoon near 155 Burr Street, triggering an immediate multi-agency search and rescue operation.

Initial Reports and Immediate Response

Authorities received the first emergency calls shortly after 4:00 p.m. Witnesses reported seeing a low-flying aircraft over the water followed by a splash and disappearance into the Sound. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene, with initial reports confirming that one person was seen in the water. The second occupant of the aircraft remains missing as of this evening.

Branford Marine units arriving first on scene confirmed that the aircraft was fully submerged, complicating search and rescue operations. Divers and marine teams are now scouring the area, while sonar equipment has been deployed to locate the wreckage and the second victim.

Massive Multi-Agency Effort Underway

A large-scale coordinated response is currently active, involving numerous fire and rescue departments across the region:

• New Haven Fire Department: Engines 16 and 4, Truck 3, Rescue 1, Command Units C32 and C33
• East Haven Fire Department: Marine 1 deployed
• Branford Fire Department: Marine units 2 and 5 on scene
• West Haven Fire Department: Marine vessel requested and en route

All responding teams were directed to stage at Lighthouse Park, a strategic access point to coordinate search efforts and provide logistical support.

“Multiple agencies are working hand-in-hand on this,” said one emergency official at the scene. “Our top priority right now is locating the second person and ensuring all safety protocols are in place for divers and responders.”

FAA and NTSB Involved

While the cause of the crash remains unknown, both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and will be conducting a full investigation once the immediate rescue operations conclude.

At this time, authorities have not released the identity of either occupant, nor have they confirmed the aircraft’s model, registration number, or flight origin and destination. Sources close to the investigation say the plane may have been approaching Tweed New Haven Airport when it encountered difficulties, though this has not been officially verified.

Public Safety Advisory and Ongoing Efforts

Officials are urging the public to avoid the area around Lighthouse Park and Burr Street, where emergency vehicles and marine operations are concentrated. Boaters in the surrounding waters are being asked to stay clear of the search zone to ensure visibility and safety for divers.

The condition of the individual pulled from the water is currently unknown, though paramedics were seen providing urgent medical care onshore before transporting the person to a local hospital.

“This is still a fluid situation,” said East Haven Police Chief Brent Larrabee. “Our hearts go out to the families involved, and we are doing everything we can to bring closure and answers.”

Next Steps

Investigators are expected to begin recovery and examination of the submerged wreckage once the search concludes. The NTSB will analyze flight data, weather conditions, mechanical integrity, and pilot communication records to determine the chain of events that led to the crash.

For now, the coastal community of East Haven watches anxiously as rescue teams continue their efforts well into the night. The story is developing, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available from local authorities and federal agencies.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.