A Learjet 55 crashed shortly after taking off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport on January 31, 2025, carrying six individuals including a pediatric patient, her mother, and four crew members. The incident resulted in significant destruction, igniting a fireball as the aircraft crashed near Roosevelt Mall, with eyewitness reports describing the scene as chaotic and distressing.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the flight took off at approximately 6:06 PM local time, destined for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri to refuel before proceeding to Tijuana, Mexico. The child, who was being transported back home after receiving life-saving medical care, was accompanied by her mother and flight personnel consisting of a pilot, co-pilot, paramedic, and doctor.
Shai Gold, spokesperson for Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, which operated the flight, stated, “At this time, we cannot confirm any survivors.” The jet reportedly reached 1,650 feet before inexplicably plunging, descending at alarming speeds of up to 11,000 feet per minute, as corroborated by data from ADS-B Exchange.
Witnesses recounted terrifying moments as they observed the aircraft crash with incredible force. Mikey Littlejohn, working nearby, described the sight, stating, “All I could see is this big ball of flames in the sky. Literally, we heard a loud, loud bang.” Another observer, Vadim Osipov, likened the scene to what he experienced during wartime, illustrating the shocking impact the incident has had on the community.
The crash prompted quick responses from local law enforcement and emergency responders who labeled it as a “major incident.” Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker reported damage to several houses and vehicles. Fortunately, there were no fatalities immediately reported on the ground. The crash site drew significant attention, with multiple fire trucks extinguishing flames as emergency teams rushed to aid survivors.
Three individuals were treated for minor injuries at Temple University Hospital, with the hospital spokesperson confirming their condition was stable. Parker relayed to the media the city's collective grief, noting, “It’s unclear how many homes have been affected by the crash,” and emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting the victims’ families.
Governor Josh Shapiro was on the ground coordinating with emergency response teams, offering the state’s full resources to manage the aftermath of this tragic event. He expressed solidarity with affected families, conveying, “We know there will be loss in this region, and we want to offer our thoughts and our serious prayers for those who are grieving.”
Following the incident, President Donald Trump also shared his condolences, stating on Truth Social, “So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More innocent souls lost.” His remarks reflected the wider national concern surrounding aviation safety, especially coming so soon after another recent collision involving military and commercial aircraft.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation, with both entities gathering information and analyzing data from the crash. Officials from Jet Rescue Air Ambulance expressed their sadness over the event, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic event. Our team stands ready to support all authorities in the investigation.”
Several roads were closed off near the crash site, adding to the chaos as first responders managed the scene. Nearby, the Roosevelt Mall was evacuated as precautionary measures were implemented to prevent potential injuries from any additional hazards.
While the full extent of the damage and the condition of the aircraft is still under scrutiny, the local community has begun to gather and support one another, as efforts to assist those displaced continue. Red Cross teams have been deployed to aid families affected by the crash.
The stark visuals of the crash—a massive fireball lighting up the evening sky—will not soon be forgotten by those who witnessed it or by the families awaiting news about their loved ones. With the investigation underway, authorities aim to determine the cause of this tragic accident, alongside ensuring the community’s recovery.
This is still developing, and updates will continue as more information becomes available about the investigation and the condition of those on board and affected by the crash.