Breaking: Medical Jet Erupts in Massive Fireball Near Philadelphia Mall
A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Philadelphia when a medical transport jet crashed shortly after takeoff, creating a massive fireball that set nearby homes ablaze.
The plane, carrying a sick child and five others, went down near the busy Roosevelt Mall shopping center.
What We Know About the Passengers
The flight was carrying precious cargo – a child patient heading home to Mexico after receiving treatment for a life-threatening condition in Philadelphia. On board were:
- The sick child and their mother
- Four crew members All passengers were Mexican nationals, and the plane was headed to Tijuana with a planned stop in Missouri.
Major incident near Cottman and Bustelton Avenues in Northeast Philadelphia across from Roosevelt Mall. Roads closed in area including parts of Roosevelt Boulevard. Avoid area. @PhillyFireDept @PhillyPolice pic.twitter.com/6OSNNs4eCD
— Philadelphia OEM (@PhilaOEM) January 31, 2025
Eyewitnesses Describe “Mini Earthquake” and Dramatic Fireball
Local residents experienced terrifying moments as the crash shook their homes. Michael Schiavone, 37, described it as feeling “like a mini earthquake.”
Another resident, Jim Quinn, captured the horrifying moment on his doorbell camera, showing a white streak diving from the sky followed by a massive fireball.
Rescue Efforts and Emergency Response
First responders rushed to the scene as multiple homes and vehicles caught fire. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker confirmed damage to several properties, while authorities are bracing for potential fatalities, though exact numbers haven’t been confirmed.
What Caused the Crash?
The Learjet 55, owned by Jet Rescue, was only in the air for about 30 seconds after taking off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. Flight data shows the plane reached 1,600 feet before disappearing from radar.
Latest Updates
- Environmental protection agencies are on site
- Roads around the crash site are closed
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation
- Both President Trump and Governor Shapiro have addressed the incident
This tragic event comes just days after another major aviation disaster in Washington DC, marking a difficult week for American aviation.