Rescue operation underway after helicopter crashes into waters near Catalina Island

– A helicopter has reportedly crashed into the waters near Avalon on Santa Catalina Island, with a search and rescue operation underway.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department confirmed there was a Marine Search and Rescue operation underway, which began shortly after receiving a report of three people in the ocean shortly before 8 p.m. off of Avalon.

The Coast Guard's Los Angeles Station later said at least 5 people had initially gone into the water following a helicopter crash and were helping with the rescue.

This is a developing story. This article will continue to be updated as more information becomes available. Location: AVALON, Calif. (KABC).