Small Plane Crash Sparks Fiery Explosion in Northeast Philadelphia
On Friday evening, a tragic plane crash unfolded in Northeast Philadelphia, causing a massive explosion that shook the surrounding area. The crash occurred just after 6 p.m. near the intersection of Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard, sparking a large-scale emergency response.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that a Learjet 55 had taken off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, bound for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri. Shortly after departure, the aircraft went down, leaving a devastating scene in its wake. Officials initially reported that two individuals were on board, but later accounts suggested there were six, including a pilot, medic, and flight crew members. The plane was reportedly on a medical mission, and a patient may have been among the passengers.
Eyewitnesses described the horrifying moments surrounding the crash. One witness recounted seeing the plane collide with a building, resulting in a fiery explosion that lit up the sky. "It was just horrific. The whole sky lit up," the witness said, describing the scene as "Earthquakish." Nearby doorbell cameras captured plumes of smoke rising into the air, and others reported feeling the ground shake from the impact.
Mikey, an employee at a nearby gas station, recalled the chaotic aftermath. "A big ball of fire went up into the sky, and the whole gas station shook. Debris was flying everywhere," he said, noting that he worked to keep customers safe inside during the incident.
The crash site showed significant destruction, with homes, vehicles, and even individuals in the vicinity affected by the flames. Several people sustained burn injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment, though their conditions remain unknown.
The Philadelphia Fire Department urged residents to steer clear of the area around Calvert and St. Vincent streets as emergency crews worked to contain the situation. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro stated that his office was in contact with local officials and first responders, offering state resources to assist in the response and recovery efforts.
Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations into the crash. Initial reports suggest the plane disappeared from radar shortly after takeoff, having reached an altitude of 1,600 feet before plummeting to the ground.
As of now, the cause of the crash remains unclear, and authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage and casualties. Roads in the area remain closed as the investigation unfolds.
