Officials have confirmed that all six people aboard an air ambulance that crashed in Philadelphia shortly after takeoff have died.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker stated: “A tragic plane crash occurred in Northeast Philadelphia near Roosevelt Mall at Cottman and Bustleton Avenues on Friday evening, January 31, 2025, around 6:10 p.m.”

The crash involved a private Learjet 55, a medical transport aircraft, which was carrying two passengers—a mother and daughter—as well as four crew members. All six on board were killed in the incident.

Given the horrific nature of the crash, with footage showing the plane erupting into a fireball upon impact, casualties were expected. A spokesperson noted, “When something like this happens, it’s always shocking.”

The spokesperson also emphasized that the aircraft is meticulously maintained, adding, “We spare no expense because we know how critical our mission is.”

The air ambulance was en route to transport a young child, who had received treatment for a life-threatening condition, back to Mexico, accompanied by her mother.

The crash occurred about 30 seconds after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, landing on a city street where vehicles and buildings were damaged by the resulting explosion and fireball.

Several people on the ground were injured and taken to the hospital. While the exact number of injuries remains unclear, at least six people have been hospitalized, and three have since been released after treatment.

The plane was supposed to travel first to Missouri before heading to Tijuana to return the mother and child home. Instead, the crash has resulted in the loss of six lives.

According to CNN, air traffic control was asked by another pilot about the situation and responded with, “We’ve lost the aircraft.” Initial confusion surrounded the crash, and authorities are still working to understand exactly what happened.