Seven people are confirmed dead after a small medical plane crashed in Northeast Philadelphia on Friday, and at least 19 people are being treated at various hospitals in the area.
City and state officials provided an update on the tragedy Saturday afternoon, confirming that the six people onboard the aircraft — a pediatric patient, her mother, and a four-person flight crew — were killed in the crash. At least one other person died, an individual in a car.
“We are devastated by the tragic loss of life and my thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as each person injured by this terrible tragedy,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker.
The crash occurred shortly after the aircraft, a Learjet 55 en route to Missouri, departed from the Philadelphia Northeast Airport at 6:06 p.m. approximately 3.5 miles away from the crash site, according to authorities. The medical transport plane crashed into a nearby residential neighborhood shortly after takeoff. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Fire companies arrived on the scene at 6:11 p.m. and found heavy fire coming from five residences and multiple vehicles and debris strewn across Cottman Avenue. Local authorities confirm it took two hours for the incident to be placed under control.
“The Philadelphia Fire Department has been working diligently and carefully at the site of this tragedy since just after 6 p.m. yesterday evening,” Fire Commissioner Jeffery Thompson said on Saturday. “Our members extinguished multiple fires in multiple locations, immediately began assessing and treating victims and evaluated the area for other hazards.
“We continue to work closely with the many responding local, state, and federal agencies to ensure a thorough investigation and recovery,” Thompson added.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are leading the investigation into the cause of the crash and working with local and state partners, authorities said, adding that NTSB with FAA will be providing updates about their investigation in the coming days.
“In this situation, partnerships are critical. We are working around the clock in collaboration with all of our partners – this is an intergovernmental effort and we are thankful for the support,” Parker said.
Multiple videos online show the plane falling from the sky, followed by a massive explosion, with several fires erupting throughout the densely populated neighborhood. Many neighbors immediately rushed to the scene, recording video of the immediate aftermath and helping those in need.
“Tonight we saw the best of Philly. We saw neighbor helping neighbor. We saw Pennsylvanians looking out for one another,” Gov. Josh Shapiro said on Friday night, promising to provide whatever Commonwealth resources are needed as recovery efforts continue.
Those who have been displaced can seek shelter at Samuel Fels High School, 5500 Langdon Street. The City Office of Emergency Management, the American Red Cross – Southeastern Pennsylvania Region and the School District of Philadelphia are operating a 24-hour shelter for those impacted by the tragedy.
Anyone who experienced property damage can call the American Red Cross – Southeastern Pennsylvania Region at 1-800 Red Cross for support and for help in filing a claim.
In addition, local businesses facing operational challenges due to local road closures and the investigation can contact the Department of Commerce’s Mayor’s Business Action Team by calling 215-683-2100 or emailing business@phila.gov
“We know people want to help others displaced by this incident, and we are touched by the outpouring of brotherly love and sisterly affection during these difficult times for so many,” said Parker. “We will make available ways you can help as soon as possible. For now, we ask please do not come to this site, as this is an active, ongoing investigation.”
PECO and Philadelphia Gas Works are working to restore power and gas in the area. Officials urge anyone who smells gas to immediately call 215-235-1212. Additionally, anyone seeking mental health services, should call 215-685-6440 or visit DBHIDS.org.
Philadelphians can sign up for emergency and informational messages by texting “READYPHILA” to 888-777. Alerts can be customized online at phila.gov/ready.
“This tragic incident has deeply impacted our entire city,” said Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel. “I am extremely proud of our officers, who have been working hard on the ground since the moment the crash occurred—supporting rescue efforts, securing the surrounding area, and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.”
“We remain committed to doing everything in our power to help our community heal from this tragedy.”
