6 Feared Dead After Medical Plane Crashes in Philadelphia
Introduction
A tragic incident occurred in Philadelphia on Friday night when a small medical plane carrying six people crashed near a shopping center in Northeast Philadelphia. The crash resulted in a large fireball that engulfed homes and vehicles, leaving no survivors. The plane was transporting a young female patient, her mother, two pilots, a doctor, and a paramedic. All six individuals on board were Mexican nationals, according to Mexico’s Foreign Ministry.
Details of the Crash
The Learjet 55, owned by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, was en route from Philadelphia to Tijuana International Airport in Mexico. The patient had completed her treatment at Shriners Children’s in Philadelphia and was being transported home. The plane had a planned stop in Missouri for fuel before its final destination.
The crash occurred shortly after takeoff, less than three miles from the end of the runway, according to Flightradar24, an aviation tracking website. Data indicated that the plane was descending at a rate of 11,000 feet per minute. Air traffic controllers attempted to communicate with the pilot but received no response.
Aftermath and Investigation
The impact of the crash was severe, with debris affecting several apartment buildings and vehicles. Residents reported thick smoke and the smell of fuel. Emergency services were quickly on the scene, and several people were injured, with three being hospitalized.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash. Jet Rescue Air Ambulance has a history of safety, with only one other fatal incident in its 27 years of operation.
Reactions and Response
Mayor Cherelle Parker of Philadelphia urged residents to stay indoors and avoid touching any debris. President Trump also responded to the incident via social media, stating that his administration was monitoring the situation.
Conclusion
The crash of the medical plane in Philadelphia is a devastating reminder of the risks associated with air travel. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the families of the victims and understanding the circumstances that led to this tragic event.
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