A Jet Rescue Air Ambulance plane, a company providing air ambulance services based in Mexico and the United States, crashed in Philadelphia, resulting in a tragic toll of six Mexicans dead, including a girl who had completed treatment at Shriners Children's Hospital, her mother, and four crew members. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker reported that in addition to those who died on board the plane, one person on the ground lost their life, and 19 others were injured.
"All planes are maintained, no expenses are spared because we know our mission is critical," stated a Jet Rescue spokesperson. The tragedy occurred just two days after another air disaster in the United States and became the second fatal incident in 15 months for Jet Rescue.
The accident, in which there were no survivors, happened when the plane, a Learjet 55 registered in Mexico, was transporting the girl and her mother back to their country after treatment. A doorbell camera captured the moment of impact near a shopping center and a major road in Philadelphia, showing the plane nosediving in a white trail and exploding upon hitting the ground.
"As of Saturday morning, officials confirmed seven dead — six in the jet, one person on the ground — and 19 injured," noted Adam Thiel, the city's managing director. Authorities continued to assess the damage in a wide area covered by the accident to gather information that could explain the cause of the incident. It is "totally possible" that the victim counts may change as the investigation progresses, Thiel stated.
Consular authorities are in contact with the families of the victims to provide support during this difficult time. Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico, expressed her sorrow over the loss of lives and extended her solidarity to the loved ones and friends of the deceased.
