Three dead in small plane crash on busy Boca Raton street; multiple roads closed
A small plane crashed near Boca Raton Airport on Friday morning, killing three people on board and injuring one person on the ground, as federal authorities begin investigating the cause of the fiery accident.
A tragic plane crash near Boca Raton Airport on Friday morning has left three people dead and one injured, prompting federal authorities to launch a full investigation. The small twin-engine aircraft went down along a busy roadway, erupting into a fireball shortly after takeoff, and caused widespread alarm throughout the surrounding community.
The crash, which occurred just minutes after the Cessna 310 departed for Tallahassee International Airport, drew a swift emergency response and has raised questions about possible mechanical issues. As investigators from the FAA and NTSB begin their work, local officials and eyewitnesses have shared chilling accounts of the incident, which shook buildings and sent debris flying across the area.
Boca Raton plane crash leaves 3 people killed
According to Boca Raton Fire Rescue Assistant Chief Michael LaSalle, all three people aboard the twin-engine Cessna 310 were killed in the crash. A man driving nearby was also injured when his car struck a tree due to flying debris and flames. He was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer issued a statement expressing condolences: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a plane crash occurred earlier today within our community. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic event. We ask for patience and respect for the families involved as investigations continue.”
The aircraft departed from Boca Raton around 10 a.m. and was headed to Tallahassee, officials confirmed. By 10:12 a.m., emergency dispatch received a call reporting a plane in distress. The crash occurred at approximately 10:20 a.m., LaSalle and the FAA reported. Mechanical problems are believed to have contributed to the accident.
FlightRadar24 tracking data shows the plane circling the airport multiple times before the crash. Witnesses shared their reactions online, with one stating, “I heard it zooming by a couple of times and then—boom—a plane crashed.” Another nearby resident added, “The whole building shook.”
According to Newsweek, the plane had reported mechanical issues prior to the crash.
Aerial footage from WTVJ showed debris scattered across the roadway and nearby train tracks. The outlet also reported the presence of two bodies among the wreckage, along with a damaged vehicle. Officials from the Boca Raton Police and Fire Rescue have not yet provided further comment.