PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A Learjet 60 crashed near Military Trail and 10th Avenue North on Sunday, resulting in nine fatalities and evacuations for approximately 600 residents.
The jet, which had departed from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas, was en route to North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The crash caused significant damage, creating a crater in the roadway and strewing debris in the vicinity. Authorities confirmed no injuries among ground residents.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, with assistance from the FAA. The cause of the crash has yet to be determined. An update is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday in West Palm Beach.
Evacuations and Closures
Residents were relocated to the Greenacres Community Center at 501 Swain Blvd. John I. Leonard High School, located near the incident, is also closed. Military Trail is shut down between Cresthaven Boulevard and 10th Avenue North, with officials indicating that the closure could extend for weeks as assessments and investigations continue.
Business Impact and Community Response
Señor Lechón, a local restaurant, reported it was affected by the crash, although all staff and customers were reported safe. Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez of the Diocese of Palm Beach announced a memorial Mass for the victims scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach.
Authorities have not released the names of those deceased as of Monday morning.
Witness Accounts
Witness Jason Valentine recounted seeing significant destruction upon arriving at the site. He noted a broken water main causing flooding and described a scene of chaos with panicked residents seeking information about loved ones.
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow.