Plane crashes in San Diego neighborhood setting at least 15 homes on fire
In the early hours of May 22, 2025, a tragic aviation accident occurred in San Diego’s Murphy Canyon neighborhood when a Cessna Citation II jet crashed into a residential area, igniting fires in at least 15 homes and causing widespread destruction. AP News+3Wikipedia+3The Times+3
Incident Overview
The aircraft, a twin-engine Cessna 550 business jet, had departed from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, made a stop in Wichita, Kansas, and was en route to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego. At approximately 3:45 a.m. local time, amid dense fog and low visibility conditions, the plane crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood, a densely populated area predominantly housing military families.
The crash resulted in a massive fireball, with jet fuel spreading across the area, igniting fires in at least 15 homes and several vehicles. San Diego Fire-Rescue Division Chief Dan Eddy described the scene as resembling a “dramatic movie,” with a gigantic debris field and widespread destruction. Emergency responders evacuated numerous residents, and a temporary shelter was established at Miller Elementary School to accommodate displaced families.
Casualties and Injuries
Authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities among those on board the aircraft, which typically carries six to eight passengers. However, as of now, there have been no reported injuries or deaths among residents on the ground. Emergency teams continue to search the wreckage for potential victims and are working to confirm the exact number of individuals who were aboard the jet.
Ongoing Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading a comprehensive investigation into the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the dense fog and low visibility may have been contributing factors. Investigators are also examining whether the aircraft struck power lines before impact.
Community Response
The Murphy Canyon community, home to many military families, has been deeply affected by the incident. Residents described being awakened by a loud bang and seeing smoke and flames engulfing their neighborhood. Local authorities have praised the swift response of emergency services and the resilience of the community in the face of this disaster.
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with aviation accidents in residential areas and underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and emergency preparedness.
