GREENACRES, Fla. (WPEC) — A Learjet 60 crashed in a residential area near Military Trail and 10th Avenue North on Sunday afternoon, resulting in a fiery explosion and extensive emergency response.
According to authorities, the aircraft was en route from Austin, Texas, to North Eleuthera in the Bahamas, carrying nine individuals at the time of the incident. The jet reportedly descended rapidly, losing altitude from approximately 41,000 feet to ground level in about one minute.
DeWitt Ingram, a Learjet type-rated captain and aviation consultant, noted that the high-speed impact likely contributed to the absence of recognizable wreckage at the scene. He indicated that an uncontrolled descent could have resulted in significant stress on the aircraft structure.
Witnesses reported a loud explosion, prompting a massive response from emergency services, closing S. Military Trail in both directions. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with unconfirmed reports suggesting weather conditions, including thunderstorms, could have affected the flight's stability.
Ingram emphasized that while the flight path appeared unusual, it was unclear if adverse weather played a definitive role in the incident. The investigation continues as officials work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash.