The plane crash in Northeast Philadelphia that resulted in 24 injuries and seven fatalities, including six on board and one individual on the ground, remained under investigation as of Monday.
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The crash happened Friday evening when a Learjet 55, which was operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, slammed into the ground shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The jet was traveling to Missouri before its final destination in Mexico.
Among the victims were a pediatric patient and her mother, who were returning to Mexico after receiving medical care in Philadelphia, authorities said.
As of Monday, four people remained hospitalized, with two in critical condition, Mayor Cherelle Parker confirmed.
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U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy toured the crash site with Parker, Gov. Josh Shapiro, investigators, and emergency responders.
Duffy, who only took office last week, stated that the investigation would consider multiple factors, including weather conditions, potential medical issues, and mechanical failures.
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A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected within 30 days.
While speaking with reporters, Shapiro told the public that local, state, and federal authorities are working diligently to investigate the crash and ensure the safety of the traveling public.
The victims on board the crash jet were identified: the pilot was Alan Alejandro Montoya Perales; the co-pilot was Josue de Jesus Juarez Juarez; the flight paramedic was Rodrigo Lopez Padilla; and Dr. Raul Meza Arredondo. The passengers were Valentina Guzman Murillo, 11, and her mother, Lizaeth Murillo Osuna, 31.
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This incident follows another major U.S. air disaster in Washington, D.C. where a military helicopter and passenger jet collided, killing 67 people.
Roosevelt Boulevard was reopened Monday, but the nearby Roosevelt Mall was still closed.
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The NTSB has recovered crucial evidence, including the plane’s voice recorder.
The plane’s cockpit voice recorder was buried about eight feet in the impact crater and was recovered Sunday, an NTSB spokesperson said.
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The jet’s Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System was also recovered.
The recorder and warning system are set to be analyzed at the NTSB’s Vehicle Recorders Laboratory in Washington D.C., NTSB officials said.
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The crash took place less than 4 miles from the Bucks County border.
Investigators are looking for assistance from the public and asking anyone with videos or photos of the crash to forward them to witness@ntsb.gov.
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