A heroic act was conducted by a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer in Goleta on January 29, 2025. Officer Ayala, who was in the middle of a routine traffic stop, observed a planes parachute deploying in an empty field beyond the road. He made the decision to abandon his current task to rush to the crash site, which was located between Los Carneros and Storke roads near Highway 101.
Witnesses captured video footage of Officer Ayala courageously making his way through a chain-link fence on the freeway and sprinting toward the burning aircraft. The intense scene revealed that Officer Ayala had arrived just in time to drag the planes pilot, who was severely injured, out of the flaming wreckage. The smell of fuel hung in the air, emphasizing the critical urgency of the situation.
Following an explosion and the plane being completely overtaken by a fire which sparked a half-acre brush fire, officer Ayala coordinated bystanders to extend aid to the pilots passenger. The woman had been able to safely remove herself from the plane prior to the flames engulfing it.
The pilot, a 29-year-old man, and his passenger, a 33-year-old woman, were both transported to a local hospital to receive treatment for major injuries. The CHP praised Officer Ayala for his quick thinking and bravery, which potentially averted a tragedy, calling his actions a testament to his dedication to public safety service and those who risk their lives to save others.
The incident is currently being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration. In an unrelated outcome, the driver involved in Officer Ayalas original traffic stop was let off with a warning.
From fender benders to freeway pileups, Pinnacle LLP has California covered. Contact us today for a free consultation.