GREENACRES, Fla. (CBS12) — A Learjet 60 crashed near Military Trail and 10th Avenue North on Sunday afternoon, resulting in nine fatalities on board and evacuating approximately 600 residents from a nearby mobile home community.
The Learjet departed from 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 created a large crater in the roadway; however, no injuries on the ground were reported.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with assistance from the FAA. The cause of the crash remains undetermined. An update from the NTSB is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday in West Palm Beach.
Evacuations and Closures
Residents were relocated to the Greenacres Community Center located at 501 Swain Blvd. John I. Leonard High School, situated near the crash site, was closed Monday as emergency crews continued their response efforts.
Military Trail is closed between Cresthaven Boulevard and 10th Avenue North. Authorities indicate that this closure may extend for several weeks as investigations and assessments are conducted.
Impact on Local Businesses
Señor Lechón reported via Facebook that its business operations were impacted by the crash and an uncertain reopening date is anticipated. All staff and customers present during the incident are reported safe.
Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez from the Diocese of Palm Beach expressed condolences and announced a memorial Mass for the nine victims scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased.
NTSB plans to provide further information on the Greenacres jet crash as residents remain displaced. CBS12's Paige Meyer reports.
Witness Accounts
A witness, Jason Valentine, explained that he first saw police vehicles responding to the area around 1 p.m., later returning to find significant damage. “I just see a hole in the ground,” he stated, noting a broken water main in the vicinity.
Valentine described the scene as chaotic, with many people appearing frightened and seeking comfort from one another. It took residents some time to realize the nature of the incident as parts of the aircraft were discovered.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.