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Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez of Philadelphia has called for prayer following a fatal air crash in the city on January 31. The incident occurred just days after a midair collision near Washington killed 67 people.
“This shocking tragedy comes with great loss, pain, and anxiety for the families of the crew and passengers as well as neighborhood residents and business owners whose evening was shattered with sudden violence,” Archbishop Pérez stated. “We pray fervently that God will bring comfort and healing in this time of anguish.”
The crash involved a medical flight departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. Shortly after takeoff, the Learjet 55 crashed into a major intersection, causing fires and leaving debris across Roosevelt Boulevard, a shopping mall, and nearby residential areas.
The accident resulted in at least seven fatalities. All six individuals aboard the Jet Rescue Air Ambulance were confirmed dead, including Valentina Guzman Murillo, an 11-year-old patient returning to Mexico after treatment at Shriners Children's Philadelphia, her mother Lizeth Murillo Ozuna, captain Alan Alejandro Montoya Perales, co-pilot Josue de Jesus Juarez Juarez, Dr. Raul Meza Arredondo, and paramedic Rodrigo Lopez Padilla. Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed all six were Mexican nationals.
Shriner’s Children’s Hospital expressed being "heartbroken" over the loss of their patient. An additional victim in a car remains unidentified.
As of February 3, twenty-two others were reported injured with three in critical condition according to Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker.
The National Transportation Safety Board has recovered the flight's data recorder and continues its investigation.
President Donald Trump remarked on Truth Social about the tragedy stating "more innocent souls" had been lost and praised first responders' efforts.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro assured full state support during a media briefing while commending emergency response efforts.
Philadelphia's administration is unified under what Mayor Parker describes as a “One Philly philosophy” in addressing the crisis.
Faith communities are also responding; Father Patrick Welsh of St. Matthew Parish opened his church for Eucharistic adoration to provide solace amidst the disaster's aftermath. Archbishop Pérez encouraged unity in prayer for those affected by the crash.
“May our Blessed Mother wrap her protective mantle around the first responders working tirelessly to assist the injured," Archbishop Pérez said.
Retired Police Sergeant Mark Palma highlighted the need for prayer support for first responders who face emotional challenges due to such tragedies.
Investigators continue their work at Cottman Avenue where all jet occupants died along with one person on the ground during this tragic event.
