A tragic plane crash occurred on Friday evening in Northeast Philadelphia, resulting in the deaths of all six people onboard, including a child and her mother. The plane, a Jet Rescue Air Ambulance Learjet 55, had just taken off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, en route to Missouri and Mexico, when it crashed shortly after departure, causing a massive explosion that engulfed several nearby homes and vehicles.
Crash Details and Immediate Aftermath
The Learjet 55, a medical transport plane, was carrying a pediatric patient who had just completed treatment for a life-threatening condition at Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia. The child, along with her mother and four crew members, was being flown back to Mexico, with a planned stop in Missouri. Flight records show that the plane was airborne for only about one minute before disappearing from radar.
The crash occurred around 6:10 p.m. near a busy intersection close to Roosevelt Mall in the Rhawnhurst neighborhood, a residential area in Northeast Philadelphia. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by thick smoke and flames as the plane collided with the ground. Video footage of the crash and its aftermath quickly spread on social media, showing the extent of the destruction.
Victims and Ground Injuries
All six people on the plane, including the child and her mother, were confirmed dead. Authorities later confirmed that all the passengers were Mexican nationals. Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia expressed their heartbreak, as the child had been under their care, with staff previously sending her off before the tragic incident.
On the ground, several people were injured by the crash. At least six individuals were taken to Temple University Hospital, with some being treated for burns and trauma. Many of these injuries occurred from flying debris and the subsequent fire. Authorities have not confirmed the exact number of people hurt but are continuing to assess the situation. Three individuals have since been released, while others remain in fair condition.
Massive Destruction in the Neighborhood
The crash caused widespread destruction, setting fire to homes, vehicles, and other structures in the immediate area. A large crater could be seen at the impact site, and debris from the crash scattered up to a quarter mile away. Local residents and first responders quickly rushed to the scene to help, with many recounting how neighbors assisted each other in the aftermath.
Videos from the scene showed charred vehicles and burned buildings, with some witnesses describing terrifying moments as they ducked for cover when debris flew past them. A firefighter was also reported to be hospitalized due to breathing issues.
🚨 WATCH: Aerial view of the MASSIVE fire at the Philadelphia plane crash site
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) February 1, 2025
Debris is being found over a quarter mile away pic.twitter.com/oPtfJaJ1EW
Investigation so far
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched investigations to determine the cause of the crash. Flight controllers reported the plane as a “lost aircraft” shortly after takeoff. Jet Rescue, the company that operated the plane, has stated that the aircraft undergoes rigorous maintenance, and the crew members were experienced and well-trained.
This crash marks the second fatal incident for Jet Rescue in just 15 months. In 2023, five crew members were killed when their plane crashed in Mexico.
Community Response and Support
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker praised local responders for their quick action and encouraged residents to avoid the crash site and report any found debris. A shelter has been set up at Samuel Fels High School for those affected by the disaster. Governor Josh Shapiro also offered his condolences, describing the crash as an “awful aviation disaster” and commending the efforts of state and local responders.
The crash occurred just days after a deadly plane crash near Washington D.C., which killed 67 people, marking a particularly devastating period for U.S. aviation.
As of now, federal investigators continue to examine the wreckage and gather information that may explain the crash. The families of the victims are being supported by consular authorities from Mexico, who are in constant contact with those affected.
The Northeast Philadelphia plane crash is a heartbreaking tragedy that has left a community in mourning. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the victims’ families and ensuring the safety of air travel in the future. Local authorities urge the public to respect the ongoing investigation and help those in need.
