One Week Later, Questions About Plane Crash In Philadelphia Unanswered

It has been one week since a medical jet crashed in Northeast Philadelphia, leaving a trail of devastation, loss, and unanswered questions.

The crash, which occurred on Friday, January 31, 2025, claimed the lives of everyone on board and one person on the ground, while injuring dozens and damaging hundreds of properties.

As the community grapples with the aftermath, investigators continue to piece together what led to the tragedy.

The Crash

At approximately 6:06 p.m., a Learjet 55 operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance took off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport.

The plane, carrying a young patient, her mother, and four medical crew members, was en-route to Tijuana, Mexico, with a stop in Branson, Missouri.

The patient, Valentina Guzman Murillo, had just completed treatment for a life-threatening condition and was being transported home.

Shortly after takeoff, the plane crashed along Cottman Avenue near the Roosevelt Mall, just three miles from the airport.

Witnesses described a massive explosion and fireball that engulfed the area. The impact created an 8-foot crater and damaged over 350 properties, including homes and businesses.

The Victims

All six people aboard the plane were killed. The crew included Captain Alan Alejandro Montoya Perales, co-pilot Josue de Jesus Juarez Juarez, Dr. Raul Meza Arredondo, and paramedic Rodrigo Lopez Padilla.

The patient, Valentina Guzman Murillo, and her mother, Lizeth Murillo Ozuna, were also among the victims.

On the ground, 37-year-old Steven Dreuitt lost his life when the plane struck his vehicle. His longtime partner, Dominique, suffered severe burns and remains in a medically induced coma, while their son is still hospitalized.

Another child, 10-year-old Trey Howard, was critically injured by debris and underwent emergency brain surgery. At least 24 people on the ground were injured, and officials are still assessing whether others may be missing.

The Investigation

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has recovered the plane’s black box and enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS), which could provide critical insights into the cause of the crash.

While the investigation is ongoing, officials have not yet determined why the plane went down.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praised the swift response of local officials and first responders, calling their efforts "remarkable."

Cleanup crews have worked tirelessly to restore the area, filling the crater and reopening Cottman Avenue, though some lanes remain closed.

Community Impact

The crash has left a deep scar on the Northeast Philadelphia community. Over 100 residents attended a town hall meeting on February 5, seeking assistance for housing, repairs, and other needs. In response, the city unveiled the One Philly Fund to support disaster victims.

Residents like Alexis Lloyd, who lost her home in the crash, are struggling to rebuild their lives. “She was in the kitchen, cooking when it happened,” said Lloyd’s sister, Saleena Temple.

The city has also established a Multi-Agency Resource Center to provide support to affected residents.

A memorial featuring seven crosses and a mural has been erected at the crash site, where a vigil was held to honor the victims. The community continues to come together, offering support and solidarity in the face of unimaginable loss.

What’s Next?

As the investigation progresses, officials have pledged transparency in sharing updates. Meanwhile, the city is focused on recovery efforts, repairing damaged infrastructure, and providing resources to those affected.

The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of communities in times of crisis. For Northeast Philadelphia, the road to healing will be long, but the outpouring of support and unity offers a glimmer of hope amid the darkness.

To learn more about resources for impacted residents or to donate to the One Philly Fund, visit www.phila.gov.

Carson Schuler is a fourth-year majoring in broadcast journalism, to contact him please email cts5357@psu.edu.