Local News
Mexican Girl and Her Mother Among Victims in Northeast Philadelphia Plane Crash
At least six people were on board a small medical transport plane that crashed in Northeast Philadelphia near Roosevelt Mall on Friday, January 31, resulting in multiple fatalities, officials confirmed.
Among the victims was a young girl from Tijuana, Mexico, who was returning home after receiving life-saving medical treatment in the United States.
The aircraft was piloted by Captain Alan Montoya and co-pilot Josué Juárez, who were transporting the child patient Valentina Guzman Murillo and her mother, Lizeth Murillo Osuna and medical personnel Flight Paramedic – Rodrigo Lopez back to Mexico after the girl had received life-saving treatment at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia.
The crash occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of Roosevelt Boulevard and Cottman Avenue, just minutes after the aircraft, a Learjet 55 registered as XA-UCI, took off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport.
The plane was en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri when it went down.
According to Shai Gold, a spokesperson for Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, the young girl had been receiving treatment for a life-threatening illness in the U.S., sponsored by a third-party charity.
She was accompanied on the flight by her mother, a doctor, and a paramedic, along with the pilot and co-pilot.
“She fought quite a lot to survive, and unfortunately, this tragedy occurred on her way home,” Gold said. Due to privacy laws, further details regarding the child’s condition and treatment were not disclosed.
Jet Rescue Air Ambulance believes there were no survivors from the crash.
Multiple videos captured the harrowing final moments of the flight, showing the plane plummeting from the sky before striking the ground in a fiery explosion.
The impact ignited several nearby homes and vehicles, with flames and thick smoke billowing into the evening sky.
Philadelphia’s Office of Emergency Management issued alerts to residents, advising them to avoid the area, close their windows, and remain indoors due to smoke and debris hazards. Roads surrounding the crash site remain closed as emergency crews continue their response efforts.
Two SEPTA buses were dispatched to support first responders, providing shelter and logistical assistance near the intersection of Bustleton and Cottman Avenues, according to a SEPTA spokesperson.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the Learjet 55 had departed from Northeast Philadelphia Airport shortly before the crash. Flight data indicates the plane lost altitude rapidly, disappearing from radar within 30 seconds of takeoff.
Jet Rescue Air Ambulance released a statement confirming the crash and emphasizing their focus on supporting the families of the victims and their personnel. “Our immediate concern is for the patient’s family, our crew members, and any other individuals affected by this tragedy,” the statement read.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation into the cause of the crash. No names of the victims have been released pending notification of their families.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.