3 Hurt In Plane Crash Near Big Bear Lake

BIG BEAR LAKE (CBSLA.com/AP) — Authorities say a plane that crashed has left three people injured near Big Bear Lake.

The California Highway Patrol reported the plane crash just before 2 p.m. Thursday in an area described as rugged, rocky and forested, San Bernardino County sheriff's spokeswoman Cindy Bachman told KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO.

Wreckage of the light aircraft was seen near Highway 18 west of Glory Ridge about 12 miles west of Big Bear Airport, according to San Bernardino County Fire officials.

It was unclear whether the plane was taking off or landing, however, the pilot was able to call 911 when the plane crashed, Bachman said.

A man and two women were hoisted from the wreckage and airlifted out of the forest.

KCAL9's Laurie Perez spoke with James Ponder of Loma Linda University Medical Center about the conditions of the victims.

The three people on board had moderate injuries, including bumps and bruises and perhaps some broken bones, according to Bachman. No fatalities were reported.

"I'm told they are in fair condition right now," said Ponder. "Their vital signs are stable and within normal limits. The outcome is likely going to be favorable. The patients are conscious and may or may not be comfortable."

There was no immediate information on the cause of the crash.

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