
The tragic crash of a Medevac Learjet 55 in Northeast Philadelphia has left seven people dead and many questions unanswered.
Key Takeaways
- Seven fatalities, including a child patient and one individual on the ground, with 19 more injured.
- The crash occurred during a flight from Opa-Locka, Florida, to Tijuana, Mexico, for medical transport.
- US and local authorities, including the NTSB and FAA, are investigating the accident.
- The debris field covers four to five blocks, creating challenges for rescue and recovery.
- A full investigation is underway to determine the cause, despite the aircraft’s good maintenance record.
Crash Details Emerge
A Learjet 55 carrying a young girl recently treated at Shriners Children’s Hospital crashed in Philadelphia. Operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, the plane was headed for a scheduled refueling stop when it nosedived near Roosevelt Mall, claiming seven lives. An onboard medical team and the child patient’s mother also perished. This crash has raised significant safety questions.
The accident resulted in at least 19 injuries, with jet fuel spillage causing fires in nearby homes and vehicles. The aircraft had departed from Northeast Philadelphia Airport and had a planned stop at Springfield-Branson National Airport. The disaster has affected both local residents and the broader community considerably.
At least 7 dead, 19 injured after Philadelphia Learjet crash
Medevac Air Ambulance previously had a Learjet crash in Mexico in 2023https://t.co/X6Iwf8CRAb
— Video Forensics (@Video_Forensics) February 1, 2025
Investigations Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are investigating the situation, with local authorities offering support. Teams are actively searching for the aircraft’s black box for crucial data. Investigators are assessing the extensive debris field, which complicates recovery efforts and adds to the ongoing challenges.
Jet Rescue Air Ambulance confirmed that the plane did a nosedive, yet the cause of the crash remains unknown. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico is providing support for the families of the victims. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has called for prayers and solidarity as the city navigates this painful episode.
“I happened to be a praying mayor and I know that prayer works. And if you…the most powerful thing that you can do if you’re home right now, if you’re anywhere across the nation or in the Commonwealth or the city and you’re saying, what can I do to help? Offer a prayer for our city, now is the time that we need it” – Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker
Broader Implications and Reactions
This Learjet incident followed a recent fatal crash in Washington, D.C., involving an American Airlines regional jet and a US Army helicopter. These consecutive aviation tragedies have reignited concerns over air safety protocols. The Learjet model involved in the crash has been out of production since 2021, prompting discussions on aircraft usage and maintenance.
The involvement of multiple fatalities with Mexican nationals has caught the attention of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who extended condolences and support to the families affected. The Philadelphia community and the broader international community are coming together to address the aftermath of this tragic crash.
Sources:
- Medevac flight transporting pediatric patient crashes, explodes near homes in Philadelphia
- Air ambulance crash kills 7 in Philadelphia, including child being flown home to Mexico | CBC News