A tragic incident occurred in Northeast Philadelphia when a twin-engine medevac jet crashed into a residential neighborhood, causing a fiery explosion. The aircraft was carrying six people, including a pediatric patient and her mother, who were returning to Mexico after medical treatment in Philadelphia.
Key Details of the Crash
- Aircraft: Learjet 55
- Passengers: 6 people (child patient, mother, pilot, co-pilot, paramedic, and doctor)
- Crash Location: Northeast Philadelphia neighborhood
- Intended Route: Northeast Philadelphia Airport → Springfield-Branson National Airport (refueling stop) → Tijuana, Mexico
- Nationality of Passengers: All six were Mexican nationals
- Survivors: Unconfirmed
Timeline of Events
- Takeoff Time: Just after 6 p.m. ET
- Altitude Before Crash: 1,650 feet
- Descent Rate: 11,000 feet per minute
- Last Communication: Air traffic controllers attempted to reach the aircraft but received no response.
- Crash Aftermath: Several homes and vehicles were impacted, leading to injuries on the ground.
Emergency Response
- Injuries & Hospitalization:
- Six patients transported to Temple University Hospital-Jeanes Campus
- Three discharged, three in fair condition
- Rescue Efforts: Firefighters quickly contained the blaze.
- Traffic & Evacuations:
- Roads in the area of Cottman and Bustleton avenues were temporarily closed.
- Roosevelt Mall was evacuated as a precaution.
- Northeast Philadelphia Airport was briefly closed but has since reopened.
Government & Authorities’ Response
- Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro pledged full state resources for the investigation and relief efforts.
- Senator John Fetterman & Senator Dave McCormick expressed support and coordinated with local authorities.
- FAA & National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the crash investigation.
- Environmental Concerns: The state’s environmental protection department is ensuring hazardous materials are addressed.
Eyewitness Accounts
Local witnesses described a “big ball of flames in the sky” followed by a loud explosion that shook buildings. Some likened the incident to a war zone, underscoring the intensity of the crash.
Investigation & Next Steps
Officials are actively investigating the crash to identify its cause. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Source CNN.COM
