PHILADELPHIA — A tragic incident unfolded on Friday evening when a medical transport jet crashed into a Philadelphia neighborhood shortly after takeoff, resulting in a devastating explosion that impacted multiple homes.
The flight, operated by a medical air service, had a child patient on board alongside five others, including crew members.
In a statement, the company expressed deep concern for the families involved and confirmed that the status of survivors remains unverified at this time.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker provided updates at a news conference, noting that details about potential fatalities had not yet been confirmed, although several homes and vehicles suffered significant damage.
“This is still an active scene under investigation,” she stated.
This incident occurred just two days after a catastrophic midair collision in Washington, D.C., marking a period of heightened concern surrounding aviation safety.
Witnesses captured the plane’s descent on residential cameras, showing a bright streak of white light followed by a fireball as the jet hit the ground near a popular shopping area.
One local resident described the moment by saying, “We just heard a loud roar and turned around to see the big plume.”
The crash site is located less than three miles from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, which serves mainly business jets and charter flights.
The Learjet 55 quickly vanished from radar shortly after taking off around 6:06 p.m. and was bound for Springfield, Missouri.
In response, state officials have pledged to assist with the crash investigation and response efforts.
Emergency responders arrived promptly, establishing a perimeter around the scene while directing the public away from the area.
The crash occurred at a busy intersection close to a shopping center in the densely populated Rhawnhurst neighborhood.
Videos from witnesses showed chaotic scenes filled with debris and flames rising from the wreckage.
Local residents recounted the intense moment, with one saying, “It felt like a mini earthquake when the explosion occurred.”
The aircraft’s operator, known for global air ambulance services, has a history of transporting critically ill patients.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will spearhead the investigation into this tragic accident.
