San Juan County deputies and Orcas Island EMS responded to a plane incident at the Orcas Island Airport late Wednesday afternoon, March 23.

The plane, a Cessna Grand Caravan, may have experienced a mechanical power failure at takeoff. Unable to gain altitude, the plane, still on all wheels, continued through the fence before stopping in the field south of the airport.

First responders quickly assessed patients and prepared for any possibility of a fire. No injuries were reported by the pilot or the nine passengers on board, and there was no fire development. The cause of the incident is under investigation.

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue first responders routinely complete training exercises for similar incidents, ensuring personnel are equipped and ready to respond to all incidents. Those interested in becoming an EMT or Firefighter with Orcas Island Fire and Rescue can visit www.orcasfire.org to learn more.