Three Dead After Small Plane Crashes on Florida Street Near Boca Raton
April 5, 2025 — Boca Raton, FL
A tragic plane crash shook the Boca Raton community Saturday morning when a Cessna 310 aircraft went down just minutes after takeoff, killing all three people on board and injuring one bystander.
The small twin-engine plane had departed Boca Raton Airport shortly after 10 a.m., en route to Tallahassee. But just minutes into the flight, the pilot reported a mechanical failure and attempted an emergency return. The aircraft ultimately crashed near Military Trail and Glades Road, a heavily trafficked area, igniting a fire and scattering debris across nearby streets and railroad tracks.
Witnesses Describe Terrifying Moments
“I heard a loud roar, looked up, and saw the plane spiraling. It just dropped,” said Dillon Smith, who witnessed the crash from a nearby office building. Emergency crews arrived within minutes, extinguishing the fire and securing the scene.
A driver in a nearby car was treated for minor injuries caused by debris, but no additional casualties were reported.
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash. Early indications suggest a sudden mechanical failure, though officials have yet to confirm specific details.
Maintenance records, flight data, and pilot communications are being reviewed to determine whether the incident stemmed from equipment malfunction, human error, or a combination of factors.
Community in Mourning
Local officials and residents expressed condolences as news of the crash spread. “This is a heartbreaking loss,” said Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ families, and we’re committed to supporting a thorough investigation.”
The crash has reignited discussions around small aircraft safety, maintenance oversight, and emergency preparedness—issues that may soon draw renewed focus from federal regulators.
