A medical transport plane crashed into buildings in Philadelphia on Friday, killing all six people on board and at least one person on the ground. The plane, which had just taken off, caused a massive fireball, injuring at least 19 others in the surrounding area.
A small medical transport plane crashed into multiple buildings in Philadelphia on Friday evening, killing all six people on board and at least one person on the ground, according to the city's mayor.
The Learjet 55, which was on a medical trip, was carrying a child patient and her mother, along with two pilots, a doctor, and a paramedic. All passengers were Mexican nationals. The plane had just taken off and was heading to Tijuana, Mexico, with a brief stopover in Missouri. One minute after departure, the jet fell rapidly, causing a massive fireball upon impact.
At least 19 people on the ground were injured, and the exact number of casualties is still being confirmed, as officials expect the investigation to take several days. Philadelphia's city managing director, Adam Thiel, stated that it may take "days or more" to get a clearer understanding of the number of fatalities and injuries.
The young girl being transported had recently completed life-saving medical treatment at Shriners Children's Hospital in Philadelphia. Hospital staff had celebrated her recovery earlier that day, a moment that has deeply affected those who treated her.
The flight had only been in the air for a minute after taking off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport at approximately 18:07 local time before the crash occurred less than four miles from the airport. Witnesses described hearing a loud explosion and seeing debris and shrapnel damage cars and buildings, with burning debris spreading into the streets.
Fire officials reported that five separate fires were ignited by the crash but were soon contained. The crash took place near Roosevelt Mall, a three-story shopping center, in a densely populated area. Many local homes also lost power as a result.
Witnesses recalled the terrifying moment, with one driver describing the moment the plane came down as feeling like an earthquake. Another witness mentioned how the sky lit up with a massive fireball from the explosion.
In response to the tragedy, local first responders rushed to the scene to assist, with many working overnight. The wreckage has been spread across six blocks, with some debris found in more remote areas as well. Authorities are urging residents to avoid the site and report any found debris to emergency services.
Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are examining the wreckage and working to recover the cockpit voice recorder, which may be damaged. The investigation is expected to last for several days, with authorities warning of the danger posed by the scattered debris. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also involved in the investigation.
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