BOCA RATON, Fla. — Tragedy struck in Boca Raton on Saturday morning when a small plane en route to Tallahassee crashed on a busy roadway, killing three people and injuring another, authorities reported. The incident, which set off a fiery blaze along Military Trail, is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the twin-engine Cessna 310, which had taken off from Boca Raton Airport at 10:12 a.m., encountered mechanical issues that led to the fatal crash. Officials confirmed that the pilot and two passengers on board the aircraft were killed in the accident.
The repercussions of the crash were felt on the ground as well, where a motorist suffered injuries after their vehicle drove through the aftermath of the crash and collided with a tree. Boca Raton Fire Rescue personnel, who responded to the scene, indicated that the individual’s injuries were not life-threatening.
Firefighters and emergency crews were quick to the scene to manage the blaze and provide aid. An official statement mentioned that the plane was headed for Tallahassee International Airport but did not reach its intended destination.
In response to the crash, local authorities have instituted multiple road closures that are impacting traffic flow in the area. The Boca Raton Police Department has closed North Military Trail between Northwest 19th Street and Butts Road. Additionally, the I-95 overpass at Glades Road was also shut down to both eastbound and westbound traffic, causing significant delays.
To accommodate travelers affected by the road closures, the Tri-Rail Public Information Officer announced that trains running above and below the crash site would continue as scheduled. However, buses were deployed to shuttle passengers to nearby stations, and delays were expected as emergency services worked at the scene.
Local officials urged drivers to avoid the vicinity of the crash, anticipating that the closures could extend into the foreseeable future. They also advised the public to seek alternative routes and stay informed through local news sources.
The aftermath of the crash has significant implications for residents and commuters in the Boca Raton area. Previous incidents involving small aircraft have prompted discussions about air traffic safety, particularly in densely populated regions. The ongoing investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board will aim to determine the specific causes of the crash and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the community comes to terms with the sudden and tragic loss, support services have been made available to those affected by the incident. The resilience of the Boca Raton community will be tested as it responds to this distressing event, with a focus on safety and recovery in the forthcoming days.