A helicopter above Huntington Beach suddenly spiraled out of control, losing altitude and crashing into a row of palm trees near a staircase by Pacific Coast Highway, as beachgoers watched. Online videos captured the spin and plunge before the aircraft became wedged between the palms. The Huntington Beach Fire Department said five people were taken to hospital, including two occupants who were safely pulled from the wreckage after the Saturday crash. Three people on the street were injured. The cause was not immediately released. The helicopter was associated with an annual "Cars N Copters" fundraising event planned for Sunday.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.