Emergency personnel and bystanders were urgently trying to help survivors after a plane crash on a busy freeway in Laredo Tuesday night. Social media footage captures the intense efforts to rescue five out of six passengers from a plane that erupted in flames shortly after the incident. Sadly, one passenger lost their life.
WAVE News reports that the crash happened around 10 p.m. on State Route 20, located on the city’s east side. A business jet carrying six people crashed on the highway and quickly caught fire, resulting in one fatality.
A video shared online by a passerby illustrates the dramatic rescue efforts that took place immediately afterward. It shows police and onlookers frantically trying to break the cockpit windows and open the doors to free those trapped inside. Using shovels and sledgehammers, rescuers managed to access the cabin and save the five injured passengers.
The aircraft, identified as a Cessna Citation Latitude twin-engine jet, was on its way from Los Cabos International Airport in Mexico to Austin, Texas, when it crashed just a few miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. The flight took off at 6:19 p.m. Tuesday, as tracked by FlightAware.
No injuries were reported among people on the ground following the crash. The jet is owned by NetJets, a corporate jet company based in Ohio. In a statement, NetJets confirmed their involvement in the incident and expressed concern for the safety of the passengers and crew. They have also indicated that the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the matter and refrained from speculating on what may have caused the crash.
Local news outlet KGNS reported that Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor Trevino was present at the scene and later shared his thoughts.
“Our hearts go out to the families and friends affected by this tragedy,” he stated. “As Mayor, I realize how crucial it is for investigators to thoroughly examine the situation before making any assumptions. Aerial investigations take time, and it’s vital to avoid speculation as we gather the facts.”
Trevino also praised the emergency responders, noting, “I witnessed the professionalism and bravery of first responders firsthand. I want to appreciate the police, fire department, paramedics, and all those involved for their quick response in controlling the fire and keeping the area secure. Their coordinated effort under such challenging circumstances deserves recognition.”
“Until we have more confirmed information, our focus should be on supporting those affected and respecting the ongoing investigation,” he concluded.
The incident is currently being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board.
