A small Cessna 550 aircraft crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood of San Diego early Thursday morning, igniting fires that engulfed multiple homes and vehicles in flames. The crash occurred around 3:47 am as the plane was en route to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Emergency services rushed to the scene, where widespread destruction was visible. Photos circulating on social media showed thick plumes of smoke, burning vehicles, and houses reduced to charred remains. Assistant Fire Department Chief Dan Eddy confirmed the aircraft made a “direct hit” on several homes.
“We have jet fuel all over the place. Our main goal is to search all these homes and get everybody out right now,” said Eddy, describing the scene as chaotic and dangerous due to fuel spreading the flames.
The San Diego Police Department evacuated three streets in the neighborhood and urged residents to report any debris or the smell of jet fuel. “Do not approach the wreckage or attempt to help—leave it to emergency personnel,” the department advised in a statement.
A Facebook user who witnessed the aftermath wrote, “Plane crashed in Santo Terrace neighborhood in San Diego, California. Firefighters and police are trying to put out the fire but due to jet fuel and debris it was spreading. Prayers to the pilot and his/her family. As of right now, nobody has been injured or pronounced dead.”
The FAA has yet to confirm the number of individuals on board the Cessna at the time of the crash. Officials are continuing their search-and-rescue efforts while assessing structural damage and monitoring for potential flare-ups.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Sources By Agencies
