San Diego Plane Crash: Cessna 550 Crashes into Murphy Canyon Neighborhood, Igniting Fires and Causing Evacuations

San Diego, CA – A tragic plane crash shook the Murphy Canyon neighborhood early Thursday morning as a Cessna 550 aircraft nosedived into a residential area, setting multiple homes and vehicles ablaze2. The incident occurred at approximately 3:45 a.m. local time, near Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, prompting emergency evacuations and a swift response from firefighters.

Devastation in Murphy Canyon

The crash resulted in at least 15 homes catching fire, with jet fuel spreading rapidly across the streets, engulfing multiple cars in flames. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Division Chief Dan Eddy described the scene as a “gigantic debris field” and confirmed that emergency crews were working to evacuate residents and search for survivors.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by intense flames. “It was like a bomb went off,” said one resident, who was forced to flee their home as the fire spread.

Investigation Underway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the crash. Authorities have yet to determine the number of passengers aboard the aircraft or the cause of the accident. However, dense fog in the area at the time of the crash is being considered as a possible contributing factor5.

Military Community Impacted

Murphy Canyon is home to many military service members, as it is located near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and other aviation hubs. The crash has displaced nearly 100 residents, with local officials working to provide temporary shelter and assistance.

Visuals and Ongoing Response

Photos from the scene show charred vehicles, collapsed roofs, and thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Firefighters continue to battle the flames while hazmat teams work to contain the spread of jet fuel4.

Conclusion

As authorities assess the damage and search for answers, the community remains on edge, awaiting updates on potential casualties and the cause of the crash. Officials urge residents to avoid the area while emergency crews work to secure the neighborhood.