A tragic incident unfolded in northeast Philadelphia late Friday night when a twin-engine medevac jet crashed, resulting in a fiery explosion, as reported by authorities and captured on video.
The Learjet 55 was carrying six individuals, including a pediatric patient and her mother, who were returning to Mexico after medical treatment in Philadelphia, according to Shai Gold, a representative for Jet Rescue Air Ambulance. The flight had just departed from Northeast Philadelphia Airport and was bound for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri for refueling before continuing to Tijuana, Mexico.
Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) shared that the Learjet was crewed by a pilot, co-pilot, a paramedic, and a doctor— all six occupants were identified as Mexican nationals by Mexico’s foreign ministry.
Shortly after 6 PM local time, as the aircraft reached an altitude of 1,650 feet, it began a rapid descent. Data from ADS-B Exchange indicated it plummeted at a staggering rate of 11,000 feet per minute. In the moments leading to the crash, an air traffic controller attempted to establish contact with the plane, but the situation quickly deteriorated, culminating in the declaration of a “lost aircraft” less than a minute later.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker confirmed that several homes and vehicles in the vicinity were affected by the crash. While there were reports of injuries on the ground, no fatalities were confirmed initially. Jet Rescue Air Ambulance stated that names of the individuals involved would not be released until family notifications could be made.
A photo of the twin-engine jet showcased its “Jet Rescue” branding along with medical logos. Footage from CNN affiliate WPVI revealed flames and a large plume of smoke as firefighters responded to control the blaze. The Philadelphia Fire Department reported that the fire was under control shortly thereafter.
In the wake of the incident, the area around Cottman and Bustleton avenues was closed, and the nearby Northeast Philadelphia Airport was temporarily shut down but has since reopened. Kristen Moore, a spokesperson for Roosevelt Mall across the street, confirmed that it was evacuated but reported no injuries or damage.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has pledged all necessary state resources for the emergency response, stating that the state’s emergency management agency and transportation department were on-site along with numerous state troopers. The environmental protection department is also addressing potential hazardous materials.
An investigation into the crash is ongoing, with teams from the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board present at the scene. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy noted that President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation. In response, Trump expressed his condolences, remarking on the loss of innocent lives during this tragic event.
This incident parallels a separate probe into a recent collision involving an American Airlines regional jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter in the Washington, DC area, raising ongoing concerns about aviation safety.
Priyam Gera