Fullerton, California: High School Student, Father Identified as Victims Killed in Fullerton Plane Crash

A tragic small-plane crash in Fullerton, California, has claimed the lives of 47-year-old Huntington Beach pilot Pascal Reid and his 16-year-old daughter, Kelly Reid. The father and daughter were aboard a Van’s RV-10 aircraft when it crashed into a warehouse shortly after takeoff from Fullerton Municipal Airport. The incident has left the Huntington Beach and Fullerton communities in mourning as they grapple with the loss of two beloved individuals.

The Victims: Pascal and Kelly Reid

Pascal Reid, a licensed private pilot and aviation enthusiast, was an experienced flyer with hundreds of logged flight hours. Friends and family describe him as a devoted father and a dedicated professional in the tech industry. He was well-regarded for his meticulous approach to flying and his passion for sharing aviation experiences with his daughter.

Kelly Reid, a junior at Huntington Beach High School, was a multi-talented athlete who excelled in varsity soccer, lacrosse, and flag football. Known for her leadership skills and vibrant personality, Kelly was deeply admired by her teammates and peers. Her soccer coach, Rebecca Moreno, described her as “a bright light” on and off the field. “Kelly’s energy was contagious, and her commitment to her team was unparalleled. This is a profound loss for our entire school community,” Moreno said.

Kelly’s classmates have started a memorial at the high school’s soccer field, leaving flowers, handwritten notes, and photos in her honor. One of her closest friends, Mia Alvarez, shared through tears, “Kelly was more than a friend; she was like family. Her laughter could brighten any room, and she had dreams of playing soccer in college. It’s heartbreaking that those dreams were cut short.”

The Crash and Emergency Response

The crash occurred at approximately 3:45 p.m. on January 2, 2025. The Van’s RV-10 aircraft, a popular four-seat, single-engine plane, had just departed from Fullerton Municipal Airport when Pascal Reid reported an engine failure to air traffic control. Witnesses reported seeing the plane struggling to gain altitude before veering toward an industrial area. Despite Pascal’s efforts to perform an emergency landing, the plane collided with a warehouse located on the 1300 block of Industrial Drive.

The impact caused an explosion that ignited a fire in the warehouse, which was occupied by over 50 employees at the time. Firefighters from the Fullerton Fire Department arrived within minutes, battling intense flames and thick smoke to rescue workers trapped inside. A total of 19 employees were injured in the incident, with 11 requiring hospitalization for burns and smoke inhalation. Eight others were treated at the scene and released. Fire Chief Daniel Walker praised the quick actions of his team, saying, “Our firefighters’ rapid response undoubtedly saved lives today.”

Investigation Underway

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are investigating the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that engine failure was the primary cause, but investigators will examine other factors, including maintenance records, pilot communication, and weather conditions. The NTSB has recovered the aircraft’s wreckage, which will undergo detailed analysis in the coming weeks.

Fullerton Municipal Airport Director Sarah Jensen expressed condolences to the Reid family and the injured warehouse employees. “This tragedy underscores the importance of safety in aviation. We are fully cooperating with federal authorities to determine the cause of this accident and prevent future incidents,” she said.

Community Reaction

The Huntington Beach and Fullerton communities are mourning the devastating loss of Pascal and Kelly Reid. A candlelight vigil was held at Huntington Beach High School, where hundreds of students, parents, and faculty gathered to honor their memories. School Principal Mark Davidson addressed the crowd, saying, “Kelly was a shining example of excellence in academics, athletics, and friendship. Her loss leaves a void that cannot be filled. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the Reid family as they navigate this unimaginable grief.”

In addition to the school’s memorial, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the Reid family and assist with funeral expenses. The campaign has raised over $50,000 in just 24 hours, reflecting the outpouring of love and support from the community.

The employees affected by the warehouse fire have also received significant community support. Local businesses and organizations have donated food, clothing, and funds to help those recovering from injuries and property damage. “It’s heartening to see everyone come together during such a difficult time,” said Fullerton Mayor Laura Sanchez. “This tragedy reminds us of the resilience and compassion of our community.”

Remembering Pascal and Kelly Reid

Pascal and Kelly shared a unique bond that extended beyond their father-daughter relationship. They often spent weekends flying to new destinations, exploring their mutual love for adventure. Friends recall Pascal’s pride in Kelly’s achievements and Kelly’s admiration for her father’s dedication to his passions.

“Pascal was an incredible father who loved Kelly more than anything. He often spoke about how proud he was of her,” said family friend and fellow pilot Greg Lawson. “It’s tragic that their lives ended this way, but it’s a small comfort to know they were together, doing something they both loved.”

Kelly’s soccer teammates plan to dedicate the remainder of their season to her memory. They have created custom armbands bearing her initials and jersey number, “KR10.” The team’s captain, Sophia Delgado, shared, “Kelly was more than just a teammate; she was our sister. Every game we play will be in her honor.”

The Larger Context

While rare, small-plane crashes serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with general aviation. According to the NTSB, engine failure is one of the leading causes of non-commercial aviation accidents. Aviation safety experts stress the importance of rigorous maintenance and thorough pre-flight checks to mitigate these risks.

In the wake of this tragedy, local aviation groups have pledged to increase awareness and training for pilots operating out of Fullerton Municipal Airport. “We want to ensure that every pilot is equipped with the skills and knowledge to handle emergencies effectively,” said Tom Brewer, president of the Southern California Pilots Association.

Moving Forward

As the investigation continues, the community’s focus remains on healing and supporting those affected by the crash. Huntington Beach High School has made grief counselors available to students and staff, emphasizing the importance of mental health during this challenging time. The Fullerton Fire Department is also providing resources for the warehouse employees who were injured or displaced by the fire.

Funeral arrangements for Pascal and Kelly Reid are pending, with their family requesting privacy as they process their loss. A public memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming weeks, allowing the community to pay their respects.

A Legacy of Love and Inspiration

The untimely deaths of Pascal and Kelly Reid have left an indelible mark on their community. Their lives, though tragically cut short, were filled with love, passion, and purpose. As friends and family remember them, they emphasize the importance of cherishing every moment and supporting one another through life’s challenges.

In the words of Principal Mark Davidson, “Pascal and Kelly’s story is one of love and dedication. They remind us to pursue our passions, treasure our loved ones, and come together as a community in times of need. Their legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew them.”