A Learjet 55 crashed into a residential neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia on Friday evening, causing a massive explosion. The fireball briefly lit up the sky, sending terrified residents scrambling for safety.
Jet Crashes Near Homes, Ignites Fires
The aircraft went down near a local street, injuring people on the ground. Witnesses saw an intense flash of orange light near Roosevelt Mall, a shopping center surrounded by homes. Doorbell cameras captured the moment the jet exploded, sending flames into the night sky.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the crash happened around 6:30 p.m. Initially, officials reported only two people aboard, but Jet Rescue Air Ambulance later clarified that six individuals were on the flight. The jet carried a pediatric patient, the child’s escort, and four crew members. It had departed from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri.
Emergency Crews and Officials Respond
The crash set multiple homes and vehicles on fire. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker urged residents to avoid the site and any scattered debris. She noted that the exact number of casualties was still unknown.
Governor Josh Shapiro assured residents that state resources were being deployed. He spoke with Mayor Parker and pledged full support in handling the crisis. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy also briefed President Donald Trump, who expressed sadness over the incident and commended first responders for their rapid action.
Residents Recall Terrifying Moments
Latrice and Channing Jackson were driving on Roosevelt Boulevard when they saw flashing emergency lights. “I’ve never seen this many police cars,” Latrice said. Channing found the event unsettling, especially after a recent midair collision in Washington, D.C.
Another witness, Timothy Stauffer, was home when he heard a loud explosion. “It sounded like an explosion from a war zone,” he said. He rushed outside to see thick smoke and flames rising over the boulevard. Within minutes, emergency crews arrived, blocking off streets and assisting victims.
According to flight records, the Learjet was 43 years old and registered to Jet Rescue Air Ambulance. The plane had recently traveled through Mexico, Haiti, Florida, and Arizona. The company previously promoted the jet’s “impeccable safety record” in a marketing video.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation. Authorities will examine the aircraft’s recent flight history, maintenance records, and any potential mechanical failures.
