On Thursday morning, a small plane tragically crashed into a residential street in San Diego, leading to multiple fatalities among the passengers on board. According to Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy, although no local residents sustained serious injuries, there were confirmed deaths within the aircraft. The incident occurred in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood, resulting in significant damage to several homes and igniting multiple vehicles.
The aircraft involved in the accident was a Cessna 550, a small private plane capable of accommodating between eight to ten individuals, including the pilot. The Federal Aviation Administration has been notified, but as of now, the identities of the passengers have not been disclosed. Eyewitness accounts report a chaotic scene, with Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy stating that there was jet fuel scattered throughout the area, complicating rescue efforts.
In response to the crash, local authorities initiated evacuations for approximately 100 residents from the surrounding areas. The police have announced that the crash site will remain cordoned off for the entire day as investigations continue. Footage from the scene reveals charred vehicles strewn across the street, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Local resident Christopher Moore recounted the terrifying moments leading up to their evacuation. He and his wife were awakened by a loud explosion in the early hours of the morning. After noticing smoke outside their window, they quickly gathered their two young children and fled their home. Once outside, they were confronted with the sight of a car engulfed in flames, which he described as "definitely horrifying."
A nearby marine, who witnessed the crash, described hearing a peculiar whistling sound followed by a loud boom and tremors felt throughout his home. The aircraft was reportedly en route to Montgomery Field, an airport located approximately 10 kilometers (six miles) north of downtown San Diego, before the tragic incident occurred.
This devastating crash has left the San Diego community in shock, as they come to terms with the loss of life and the destruction caused by the Cessna 550 accident. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are focused on ensuring the safety of local residents while uncovering the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.