On Thursday, May 22, 2025, a tragic aviation incident occurred in San Diego, California, when a private jet crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood, resulting in at least two fatalities and eight injuries. The aircraft, identified as a Cessna 550 Citation II, went down around 3:45 a.m. local time near the Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport during dense fog conditions.

 

The crash ignited fires in approximately 15 homes and several vehicles, leading to the evacuation of nearly 100 residents from the predominantly military housing area. One home was completely destroyed, and ten others sustained significant damage. Emergency responders described the scene as a “gigantic debris field,” with jet fuel spread across the area.

 

Authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of individuals on board the aircraft, which typically accommodates eight to ten passengers. All confirmed fatalities are believed to be occupants of the plane. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported among residents on the ground.

 

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft may have clipped a power line before impact. The plane had reportedly departed from Wichita, Kansas, and was en route to San Diego.

 

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and commended the swift response of emergency services, which helped prevent further casualties. Local animal shelters also assisted in rescuing pets from the affected homes, with several animals requiring decontamination due to jet fuel exposure.

This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and prompt emergency responses in mitigating the impact of unforeseen aviation accidents.