PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A Learjet 60 crashed near Military Trail and 10th Avenue North on Sunday, killing all nine people on board and displacing about 600 residents from a nearby mobile home community.
The jet had departed Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas and was en route to North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The crash left a substantial crater in the roadway, with debris scattered nearby. Authorities reported no injuries on the ground.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with assistance from the FAA. The cause of the crash is currently unknown, and an update is anticipated at 1 p.m. Monday in West Palm Beach.
Evacuation and Road Closures
Evacuees were relocated to the Greenacres Community Center at 501 Swain Blvd., as John I. Leonard High School near the crash was closed for safety reasons. Military Trail is closed between Cresthaven Boulevard and 10th Avenue North, with officials warning that the closure could last for weeks to allow for a thorough investigation.
Impact on Local Businesses
Señor Lechón reported on Facebook that the business was impacted by the incident and is currently closed but confirmed that all employees and customers during the crash were safe. A memorial Mass for the victims is scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach, as community leaders express condolences and prayers.
Authorities have yet to publicly identify the deceased. This story is developing; updates will follow as more information becomes available.