Authorities work the scene where a small plane crashed into a San Diego neighborhood, setting several homes on fire and forcing evacuations along several blocks early Thursday, May 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
Multiple people on board were reported dead after a small plane crashed early Thursday morning into the Murphy Canyon neighbourhood of San Diego, California, setting multiple homes and vehicles on fire and forcing evacuations across several blocks.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the aircraft was a Cessna 550, which typically carries six to eight people.
Assistant Fire Department Chief Dan Eddy during a news conference said that they will be investigating whether the plane hit a power line.
No one on the ground was injured, he said, as per news agency Associated Press.
Authorities work the scene where a small plane crashed into a San Diego neighborhood, setting several homes on fire and forcing evacuations along several blocks early Thursday, May 22, 2025.
San Diego Fire and Rescue received the emergency call at 3:47 am local time (4:17 pm IST), with units arriving on the scene within six minutes. As per the BBC, Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy said there is “jet fuel all over the place” and described a “direct hit to multiple homes.” The priority, he added, is to search affected properties and ensure residents are safe.
Around 15 homes were reportedly damaged or destroyed, and police have imposed evacuations for three streets near the crash site. A road closure is also in effect, and two schools in the area will remain closed for the day.
Authorities work the scene where a small plane crashed into a San Diego neighborhood, setting several homes on fire and forcing evacuations along several blocks early Thursday, May 22, 2025.
San Diego Police have asked the public to avoid the area and to report any sightings of jet fuel or debris. The crash occurred amid foggy weather conditions, and investigations into the cause are ongoing.
