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San Diego, May 22 — A small plane crashed into a residential neighborhood near Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport early Thursday morning, igniting a massive fire that engulfed approximately 15 homes and several vehicles. Authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities, though the exact number remains unclear.
The crash occurred around 3:45 a.m. during foggy weather conditions, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The aircraft, identified as a Cessna 550, is believed to have had the capacity to carry eight to ten people, but officials have yet to confirm how many were on board.
San Diego police and fire crews rushed to the scene, evacuating several blocks as intense flames and thick black smoke engulfed the area.
“When it hit the street, as the jet fuel went down, it took out every single car that was on both sides of the street,” said one official. “You can see that every single car was burning down both sides.”
Aerial and ground footage showed the charred remnants of homes and vehicles, with tree branches, shattered glass, and debris scattered across the area. One house had its roof completely collapsed, while others suffered extensive fire damage.
Local resident Christopher Moore, who lives just one street away, described the moment he and his family fled their home.
“We were jolted awake by a loud explosion and saw smoke billowing outside our window,” Moore said. “It was definitely terrifying, but in that moment, you just put your head down and focus on getting to safety.”
Moore, along with his wife and two young children, escaped unharmed.
Authorities are working to determine the cause of the crash. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation.
