A devastating plane crash shook a northeast Philadelphia neighborhood Friday night, leaving seven people dead and injuring at least 19 others. The twin-engine medevac jet was carrying a young patient and her mother when it went down, causing a massive explosion and engulfing several homes in flames.
Authorities confirmed that six people on the plane, including the child, her mother, and four crew members, lost their lives. Tragically, one person on the ground was also killed. The jet was en route from Philadelphia to Missouri, with plans to refuel before heading to its final destination in Mexico. The young patient had been receiving treatment at Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia before the flight.
The crash sent debris flying across several blocks, damaging homes, cars, and other property. Over 150 firefighters rushed to the scene to battle the flames and assist victims. Videos from the area show thick smoke and intense fire, with emergency crews working tirelessly to contain the situation.
Officials are still piecing together what caused the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, searching for the plane’s black box and collecting debris. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy noted that the cockpit voice recorder may be damaged but expressed confidence in her team’s ability to recover critical data.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker urged residents to stay alert and report any debris they might find. “Don’t touch it—just call 911,” she said. The mayor also assured affected families that resources, including shelter and support, are available.
The tragedy has drawn national attention, with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and federal officials pledging full support for the investigation and recovery efforts. President Donald Trump also acknowledged the crash, praising first responders for their swift actions.
As the community begins to heal, questions about the cause of the crash remain unanswered. For now, the focus is on supporting those who lost loved ones and rebuilding the neighborhood impacted by this heartbreaking event.