Janice R. Andrews
A tragic medical jet crash near a busy Philadelphia mall has left seven people dead, including a child, and injured 19 others. The Learjet 55, carrying six people onboard, crashed shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport on Friday evening, sparking a massive emergency response and leaving the community in shock.
What Happened?
The crash occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the Roosevelt Mall in northeast Philadelphia. The aircraft, operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, was transporting a young child and her mother back to their home country of Mexico after the child received medical care at Shriner’s Hospital in Philadelphia. The flight was en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri when it went down.
All six people onboard, including four crew members, were killed in the crash. One person on the ground also lost their life, according to Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker. The impact caused a large fire, damaged nearby homes, and injured several people on the ground, including those in cars, parking lots, and homes.
Community Impact and Emergency Response
The crash caused at least five house fires, which were extinguished by Saturday morning. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud explosion and seeing flames and smoke engulf the area. “It felt like the ground shook… it was a loud boom. It was startling,” said Jimmy Weiss, a local resident.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene, and six injured individuals were taken to Temple University Hospital. Three have since been treated and released, while three others remain hospitalized in fair condition. Mayor Parker urged residents to stay away from the crash site and avoid touching any debris, which could be critical evidence for investigators.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. An NTSB investigator arrived at the scene Friday night, with additional team members expected to join the effort on Saturday.
The FAA issued a ground stop at Northeast Philadelphia Airport immediately after the crash, halting all flights temporarily. Authorities have not yet released details about what may have caused the aircraft to go down, but the investigation remains “fluid and active,” according to Mayor Parker.
Condolences and Support
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences, confirming that six Mexican nationals were among the victims. “My solidarity with their loved ones and friends,” she said in a statement, adding that consular authorities are providing support to the families.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro praised the efforts of first responders and community members who came together in the aftermath of the tragedy. “We saw neighbor helping neighbor. We saw Pennsylvanians looking out for one another,” he said during a press briefing.
A Call for Prayers
As the community grapples with the devastating loss, Mayor Parker asked for prayers for the victims and their families. “Right now, we’re just asking for prayers,” she said Friday night.
The crash has left a profound impact on the city, with residents mourning the lives lost and rallying to support those affected. As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding what led to this heartbreaking incident and ensuring such a tragedy does not happen again.
How to Help
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or found debris to report it to 911 immediately. The community is encouraged to come together to support the victims’ families during this difficult time.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety in air travel. As the investigation unfolds, the thoughts and prayers of the nation are with the victims, their families, and the Philadelphia community.
