Tragedy in the Skies: Pilot’s Final Mayday Call Before California Crash Claims Six Lives
What began as a routine flight from San Diego to Phoenix ended in heartbreak when a Cessna 414 plunged into the Pacific Ocean off Sunset Cliffs, California.
The twin-engine aircraft, carrying six people, vanished from radar just minutes after takeoff. In a chilling final radio transmission, the pilot issued a desperate “Mayday” call, struggling to maintain altitude before the plane disappeared. Despite urgent guidance from air traffic control to climb and divert, the pilot was unable to recover control.
The aircraft crashed approximately five miles offshore. Search crews quickly discovered floating debris and a slick of oil on the water’s surface. However, rescue operations were soon suspended due to the extreme ocean depth, believed to exceed 200 feet. Tragically, no survivors were found.
Among the victims were Jeremy Bingham and his three sons — Bailey, Gavin, and Ayden — as well as the pilot, Landon Baldwin, and his pregnant wife, Torrie.
Landon, known for his dedication as both a father and a skilled pilot, leaves behind a community shaken by the loss. The Bingham family is being remembered for their warmth, strong values, and the deep love they shared.
A memorial service to honor their lives will be held on June 14 at the Eastern Arizona College football field. As friends and family grieve, investigators continue to search for answers in the wake of this devastating crash.