A medical transport jet carrying six people, including a child patient, crashed into a residential neighborhood in Philadelphia just seconds after takeoff on January 31. The Learjet 55, operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, erupted into flames after hitting the ground near Roosevelt Mall, engulfing multiple homes in fire. Authorities have confirmed that no survivors are expected.
The jet was en route from Northeast Philadelphia Airport to Springfield, Missouri, with its final destination in Tijuana, Mexico. According to Jet Rescue spokesperson Shai Gold, the young patient had been receiving life-saving medical treatment in the U.S. and was being flown home with her mother. “When an incident like this happens, it’s shocking and surprising,” Gold said, emphasizing that all their aircraft undergo rigorous maintenance.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are now investigating the crash, which happened just three miles from the airport. Reports indicate the jet disappeared from radar at an altitude of 1,600 feet before plummeting in less than a minute. The cause of the crash remains unknown.
President Donald Trump reacted to the tragedy on Truth Social, writing, “So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More innocent souls lost. Our people are totally engaged.” Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also addressed the public, stating, “We know that there will be loss,” as authorities continue recovery efforts.
