A horrific crash in northeast Philadelphia on Friday night left six individuals dead, including a child patient and her mother, after a medical evacuation Learjet 55 plunged into a residential neighborhood, erupting in a fiery explosion. The twin-engine jet, which had just taken off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, was en route to Missouri for a refueling stop before continuing its journey to Tijuana, Mexico.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the incident, with flight data showing the aircraft reaching an altitude of 1,650 feet before plummeting. The jet’s descent rate was recorded at an alarming 11,000 feet per minute, a tragic indicator of the rapid, catastrophic event.
Onboard were four crew members—a pilot, co-pilot, paramedic, and doctor—alongside the pediatric patient and her mother. The young patient, returning to Mexico after receiving medical treatment in Philadelphia, was one of the six individuals tragically lost. According to Shai Gold, spokesperson for Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, all six individuals on the plane were Mexican nationals.
Despite frantic efforts to re-establish communication with the aircraft, an air traffic controller’s call for the jet was met with silence. “We have a lost aircraft,” came the somber declaration shortly before the plane crashed. As authorities scrambled to respond, video footage from the scene captured the massive blaze and thick smoke, as firefighters struggled to contain the fire.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker confirmed that several homes and vehicles were impacted by the crash, though the exact number of casualties remains unclear. Local reports indicated several injuries on the ground, with six victims transported to Temple University Hospital-Jeanes Campus. Of those, three were treated and released, while the remaining three are in fair condition.
The medical evacuation jet was carrying not only the patient and her mother but also a dedicated crew, including a paramedic and a doctor, underscoring the tragic irony of a mission meant to save lives. “At this time, we cannot confirm any survivors,” said Jet Rescue Air Ambulance in a statement, reflecting the somber reality of the crash.
Authorities, including the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board, have launched a full investigation into the cause of the disaster. In response to the tragedy, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro deployed state resources, including emergency and environmental protection teams, to support the ongoing efforts.
Former President Donald Trump expressed his condolences, stating on Truth Social, “So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More innocent souls lost. Our people are totally engaged. First Responders are already being given credit for doing a great job.”
As the investigation continues and families await news, the hearts of many are with the victims, the families affected, and the brave first responders who are working tirelessly to manage the aftermath of this heartbreaking event.
PIONEER NEWS 