"New Perspective on Destruction as Investigation Gets Underway Following Deadly Plane Crash in Northeast Philadelphia"

A crater is visible in the roadway where the medical jet crashed. 

Saturday, February 1, 2025 8:48PM

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Federal investigators are now on the scene after a small medical transport plane crashed in Northeast Philadelphia during rush hour on Friday evening.

All six people on board the aircraft have been confirmed dead, and an undetermined number of people on the ground sustained injuries.

"Many individuals on the ground—in parking lots, on streets, in vehicles, and in homes—were injured. The exact number remains unknown, but several people have been transported to Temple University Hospital, Jeans Campus," stated the office of Mayor Cherelle Parker on Saturday. Officials are expected to provide further updates during a press briefing.

A massive fire erupted following the crash, leading to a significant emergency response. Vehicles, homes, and even individuals in the vicinity were engulfed in flames. New footage captured on Saturday morning reveals widespread devastation spanning several blocks. A crater now marks the impact site where the medical jet went down.

Chopper 6 footage from above shows charred vehicles and burned buildings as federal investigators assess the wreckage. The Learjet 55, which was carrying a child, her mother, and four others, crashed near Roosevelt Mall around 6:10 p.m.

According to authorities, the plane went down near Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. It was en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri.

Videos of the crash quickly surfaced on social media, capturing the moment of impact and the aftermath.

Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, the company operating the flight, confirmed in a statement that four crew members were aboard the aircraft.

"At this time, we cannot confirm any survivors," the statement read. "No names will be released until family members have been notified. Our primary concern is for the patient's family, our personnel, their families, and those injured on the ground."

Debris from the crash has been found as far as a quarter-mile from the impact site. One shocking video even shows a man inside a diner being struck by debris.

Mayor Cherelle Parker has urged residents to stay away from the crash site and to contact 911 if they find any wreckage. "We're asking for prayers," she told reporters.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo confirmed on Saturday that all six individuals aboard the plane were Mexican nationals.

"I deeply regret the deaths of six Mexicans in the plane crash in Philadelphia, United States. Consular authorities are in constant contact with the families, and I have instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide any necessary assistance. My thoughts are with their loved ones and friends," she posted on X.

Shriners Children's Hospital confirmed to Action News that the child on board had been receiving care from the hospital and was being transported back to Mexico with her mother when the crash occurred.

Temple University Hospital reported receiving six patients injured in the crash, though details regarding their injuries remain unclear. Three of those patients have been treated and released, while three others remain hospitalized in fair condition. Additionally, at least one firefighter was hospitalized due to a breathing issue, officials said.

A shelter has been set up for affected residents at Samuel Fels High School on the 5500 block of Langdon Street, according to Mayor Parker.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are leading the investigation. An NTSB investigator arrived at the scene on Friday night, with additional team members expected to follow on Saturday.

During a press briefing on Friday night, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro praised first responders and community members for their swift actions.

"We witnessed neighbors helping neighbors. We saw Pennsylvanians looking out for one another," he said.

Former President Donald Trump also commented on the incident in a post on Truth Social, stating, "So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More innocent lives lost. Our people are fully engaged. First responders are being recognized for their great work. More updates to follow. God bless you all."

Following the crash, a temporary ground stop was put in place but has since been lifted. However, Atlantic Aviation remains closed.

This tragic incident comes just days after a devastating collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C., where an American Airlines plane and a Black Hawk helicopter crashed, claiming 67 lives. That crash marked the first major commercial airline disaster in the U.S. in over 15 years.