By CA Staff Writer | Feb 1, 2025
On January 31, 2025, a tragic plane crash occurred in Northeast Philadelphia, resulting in the loss of all six individuals on board and causing significant damage to the surrounding neighborhood.
According to CNN news, the aircraft, a Learjet 55 operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, departed from Northeast Philadelphia Airport at approximately 6:06 p.m. EST, en route to Tijuana International Airport with a scheduled stop at Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri. Shortly after takeoff, around 6:22 p.m., the plane crashed near the intersection of Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard, close to the Roosevelt Mall. The impact resulted in a massive explosion, setting multiple homes and vehicles ablaze.
All six occupants of the aircraft perished in the crash. The victims included four crew members, a pediatric patient, and the child’s mother. The young girl had recently undergone life-saving treatment at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia and was being transported back to Tijuana, Mexico.
On the ground, several homes and vehicles were damaged or destroyed due to the ensuing fires. At least six individuals sustained injuries, with three requiring hospitalization for burn-related injuries. One diner patron was reportedly struck in the head by debris while eating.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that the aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure shortly after takeoff, leading to the fatal descent. Weather conditions at the time included light rain, overcast skies, fog, and wind gusts up to 30 mph.
Emergency responders, including firefighters and police, swiftly arrived at the scene to extinguish the fires and assist victims. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker expressed her condolences to the families affected and praised the efforts of first responders. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also extended his sympathies and assured that state resources would be available to support the investigation and recovery efforts.
This tragic event follows another aviation disaster earlier in the week, where an Army Black Hawk helicopter collided with an American Airlines flight over the Potomac River, resulting in 67 fatalities.
As investigations continue, authorities will work to determine the exact cause of the Philadelphia crash and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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