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A tragic incident unfolded in Northeast Philadelphia on Friday evening when a medical transport plane, a Learjet 55, crashed near the Roosevelt Mall shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The aircraft was en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri.
On board were six individuals: four crew members, a pediatric patient, and the child's mother. The young patient had recently undergone life-saving treatment in Philadelphia and was being transported back to Mexico. Tragically, there are no confirmed survivors from the crash.
The crash occurred around 6:30 p.m., resulting in a massive explosion that ignited nearby homes and vehicles. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to combat the ensuing fires and assist affected residents. Local authorities have reported multiple injuries among residents on the ground, though the exact number remains unconfirmed.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary speculations suggest possibilities such as catastrophic engine failure or a bird strike, but official conclusions will await the results of the investigation.
In response to the tragedy, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro have expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. They have also assured the public that all necessary resources are being deployed to support the ongoing investigation and provide assistance to those affected by the incident.
Local media reports indicate the crash site is near the Roosevelt Mall in northeast Philadelphia. At least one house and several cars are on fire, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. The weather at the time of the crash was cold and rainy with low visibility.
This devastating event has left the Philadelphia community in mourning, as residents and officials grapple with the aftermath of the crash and seek answers to the cause of this tragic accident.
The FAA stated that the plane was carrying at least two people. The Philadelphia CBS affiliate showed images of a large fire and several fire trucks at the scene. The status of the victims is not yet known.
This crash follows a recent collision between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over Washington, D.C., which resulted in 67 deaths.