2 dead after small plane crashes in Tofino, B.C.

Two people died and a third was seriously injured in a fiery plane crash in Tofino, B.C., on Thursday, according to authorities.

Two people died and a third was seriously injured in a fiery plane crash in Tofino, B.C., on Thursday, according to authorities.

Just before 1 p.m., police were called to Long Beach Airport for reports of a crash and a fire on the runway, the Tofino RCMP said in a news release.

"Information is limited at this time but it appears that a small six-seat aircraft may have suffered an engine fire during takeoff. One occupant was pulled from the plane and is being transported to hospital with serious injuries," a spokesperson wrote.

"The two other occupants have tragically died at the scene."

Local Mounties say they are working with the Transportation Safety Board and the BC Coroners Service to determine the cause of the fatal crash.

The crash involved a "small non-scheduled private aircraft," according to the Alberni-Clayoquit Regional District, which oversees airport operations.

"Our hearts go out to the families of those affected by this event," said Daniel Sailland, the district's chief administrative officer, in a statement.