Multiple casualties have been reported after a small medical jet crashed near a shopping mall in Northeast Philadelphia on Friday.
Debris from the incident has damaged buildings and cars in the area, according to 6ABC Action News.
Six people were onboard the plane, according to Jet Rescue, the air ambulance company operating the flight. Of the six, four were crew members and two—a pediatric patient and an escort—were passengers.
“At this time, we cannot confirm any survivors,” Jet Rescue said in a statement. “No names are being released at this time until family members have been notified. 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 Learjet 55 left Northeast Philadelphia Airport bound for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, but crashed near Roosevelt Mall.
According to CNN, air traffic control had tried to contact the plane, but can be heard saying a little over a minute later: “We have a lost aircraft. We are not exactly sure what happened, so we are trying to figure it out for now. So, for now the field is going to be closed. So, no inbounds or outbounds.”
Social media quickly posted videos of fires in the area, and a large emergency response. Multiple homes are on fire, officials told CBS News.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro wrote on X: “We are offering all Commonwealth resources as they respond to the small private plane crash in Northeast Philly.”
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker urged locals to stay away from the crash site and not touch debris, as it is “still an active scene under investigation.”
President Donald Trump also weighed in: “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.”
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident.
