A tragic plane crash involving a Learjet 55 occurred on Friday evening in Northeast Philadelphia, resulting in multiple fatalities and significant destruction.
The medical evacuation air ambulance crashed shortly after taking off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, reportedly killing all six people on board, including four crew members, a pediatric patient, and the patient’s escort.
The aircraft was heading to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri when it crashed, igniting a massive fire that destroyed at least one house and several vehicles. Poor visibility due to rainy weather may have contributed to the accident.
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Philadelphia’s emergency management office declared the incident a major crisis, imposing road closures near the crash site, which is located about five kilometers from the airport.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed the number of passengers and stated that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) would launch an investigation into the cause of the crash.
Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, the company operating the flight, expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging the severity of the incident but not confirming any survivors. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker assured the public that authorities were actively managing the situation, though an official casualty count was still pending.
This tragedy follows a recent mid-air collision near Washington D.C., involving a US Army Black Hawk helicopter and a passenger plane, which resulted in 67 deaths.
Former President Donald Trump offered his condolences on Truth Social, expressing sadness over the incident and praising the efforts of first responders.
