A medevac flight carrying a young patient crashed and exploded near residential areas in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Friday night. The aircraft, a Learjet 55, was transporting a child who had just received life-saving medical treatment. Officials have not yet confirmed the identities or ages of those on board, but the operator believes there are no survivors.
Transportation Secretary Responds to Aviation Tragedies
Following two recent plane crashes, including this one in Philadelphia and another in Washington, D.C., U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that the department would no longer participate in identity-based observances. In a statement posted on X, he emphasized that his focus remains on ensuring safety and accountability in the aviation sector.
“These incidents remind us of the need for strict safety measures in air travel,” Duffy wrote. “Moving forward, our priority is to maintain the highest standards in transportation security.”
NTSB Launches Investigation into Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has confirmed it will investigate both the Philadelphia medevac crash and the recent D.C. plane collision at the same time.
NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy reassured the public that the agency has the expertise and resources to handle multiple investigations simultaneously. “Our team is experienced in handling major aviation incidents, and we will determine the cause of both crashes and provide recommendations to prevent future tragedies,” she stated.
Investigators examine the site of a small plane crash in Philadelphia on Saturday. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Philadelphia Official Reacts to the Disaster
Lisa Deeley, Vice Chair of the Philadelphia Commission, expressed deep sorrow over the crash. In a post on X, she described the emotional toll of witnessing such devastation so close to home.
“This tragedy unfolded just half a mile from the house where I grew up and spent over 50 years of my life,” she wrote. “Seeing the destruction in a place so familiar to me is truly heartbreaking.”
Deeley also confirmed that an office building where she previously worked sustained damage, and debris was found in a nearby shopping center parking lot.
She extended condolences to Consul General Carlos Obrador for the loss of citizens from his country and urged residents to avoid the crash site while authorities continue their work.
“Please remain patient as local, state, and federal agencies investigate and respond to this tragedy,” she said. “My thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.”
Emergency crews remain at the scene as officials work to uncover what led to the deadly crash.