A Learjet 55 operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance crashed in Northeast Philadelphia shortly after taking off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The aircraft was en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri on a medical assignment.
On board were six individuals: four crew members and two passengers, including a pediatric patient.
The crash occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard, close to Roosevelt Mall. Upon impact, the plane erupted into a fireball, igniting multiple vehicles and homes in the vicinity.
Witnesses reported hearing loud explosions and described the scene as chaotic, with debris scattered across the area.
Emergency responders, including hundreds of firefighters and first responders, quickly arrived at the scene to manage the ensuing fires and assist potential victims.
Several individuals in the immediate area were transported to local hospitals with burn injuries; however, their conditions have not been disclosed. As of the latest reports, officials have not confirmed the number of fatalities resulting from the crash.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated an investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the crash.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid the area and to report any debris to emergency services, emphasizing the importance of not handling potential evidence from the crash site.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has stated that state resources are being offered to support local officials and first responders in their efforts.
The situation remains under active investigation, and further updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.