What Type of Plane Crashed in Philadelphia? Details Emerge After Fiery Explosion

A devastating plane crash occurred on Friday evening near Northeast Philadelphia Airport, leaving a neighborhood in chaos and claiming multiple lives. The aircraft, identified as a Learjet 55 air ambulance, exploded shortly after takeoff, igniting fires that damaged nearby homes. Here’s everything we know about the incident so far.

The Crash: A Fiery Explosion Near Northeast Philadelphia

The Learjet 55 went down around 6:30 PM local time, just three miles from the airport near the intersection of Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard. Witnesses described hearing a loud roaring noise before seeing the plane erupt into flames upon impact.

Witness Accounts

  • Jim Quinn, a resident of the Rhawnhurst neighborhood, captured the aftermath on his doorbell camera. He recounted hearing an unusual sound and rushing outside to find the wreckage.
  • Michael Schiavone, a Mayfair resident, initially thought the loud noise and shaking were caused by an earthquake. His home security camera later revealed the shocking truth—it was the plane crash.

The explosion was so intense that debris scattered across the area. A FOX 29 reporter noted that part of the wreckage flew through the window of a nearby diner, injuring a customer who was struck in the head.

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Who Was On Board?

The Learjet 55 was operated by MED JETS SA, a Mexico-based air ambulance provider also known as Jet Rescue Air Ambulance. According to the company, the medical plane was transporting:

  • A young girl patient from Tijuana, Mexico, who had undergone life-saving treatment at Shriners Hospitals for Children in Philadelphia.
  • The child’s mother.
  • Two medical personnel.
  • A pilot and co-pilot.

The Patient’s Story

The young girl aboard the flight had been battling a life-threatening condition and had fought hard to survive, according to Shai Gold, a spokesperson for Jet Rescue Air Ambulance.

“She fought quite a lot to survive, and unfortunately, this tragedy happened on the way home,” Gold told NBC News.

A spokesperson for Shriners Hospitals confirmed the heartbreaking news:

“Shriners Children’s is heartbroken to confirm that one of our pediatric patients and the child’s mother were aboard the Jet Rescue Air Ambulance that crashed in Philadelphia this evening.”

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Emergency Response and Casualties

Emergency responders rushed to the scene within minutes of the crash. All six individuals on board were transported to Temple University Hospital’s Jeanes Campus:

  • Three were reported to be in stable condition.
  • The other three required urgent medical attention.

Tragically, some victims did not survive. While official confirmation of fatalities has yet to be released, the fiery nature of the crash suggests significant loss of life.

On the ground, several residents sustained injuries due to the explosion and resulting fires. Some homes in the area caught fire, forcing evacuations and causing property damage.

Official Statements and Investigations

Jet Rescue Air Ambulance Speaks Out

In a statement, Jet Rescue expressed its condolences and concern for those affected:

“Our immediate concern is for the patient’s family, our personnel, their families, and other victims that may have been hurt on the ground.”

The company emphasized its commitment to safety, stating:

“When an incident like this happens, it’s shocking and surprising. All of the aircraft are maintained, not a penny is spared because we know our mission is so critical.”

Federal Agencies Launch Investigation

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced it will assist the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in leading an investigation into the crash. Officials aim to determine the cause of the accident, which remains unknown at this time.

State Support

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro pledged state resources to aid recovery efforts and support affected families.

Political Leaders React to the Tragedy

President Donald Trump’s Statement

President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to express his condolences:

“So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More innocent souls lost. Our people are totally engaged. First Responders are already being given credit for doing a great job. More to follow. God Bless you all.”

Vice President JD Vance’s Response

Vice President JD Vance echoed Trump’s sentiments on X (formerly Twitter):

“Very sad situation. May God bless the victims and their families.”

The crash left the Rhawnhurst and Mayfair neighborhoods reeling. Residents described scenes of chaos as emergency vehicles flooded the streets and firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames engulfing nearby homes.

One particularly harrowing account came from a diner patron whose head was struck by flying debris. Fortunately, no fatalities on the ground have been reported thus far, though many are still recovering from shock and minor injuries.

The crash of the Learjet 55 air ambulance serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in aviation, even when operating with the noblest intentions. As investigations unfold, the focus remains on supporting the families of the victims, the injured, and the community impacted by this tragedy.

The courage of first responders and the resilience of the affected neighborhoods highlight the strength of human spirit in the face of adversity.

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