A small private business jet crashed into a military housing neighborhood in San Diego early Thursday morning, sparking multiple fires and prompting widespread evacuations.
According to San Diego Fire-Rescue Assistant Chief Dan Eddy, the aircraft—believed to be a Cessna—struck approximately 15 homes, igniting several houses and cars. “It looks like something from a movie,” Eddy told reporters on the scene. While no injuries or fatalities had been officially confirmed, emergency crews continued to search for the pilot and any potential passengers.
“The good news so far is that we haven’t transported anyone from the scene,” Eddy said. “But we’re still checking every home thoroughly to ensure no one was inside.”
Hazardous materials crews were dispatched after reports of jet fuel scattered across the crash zone. “We have jet fuel all over the place,” Eddy added. “Hazmat is here, and more resources are on the way.”
Video footage shared with NBC News shows vehicles engulfed in flames with emergency sirens blaring in the background. One local resident, Marine Corps mechanic Forrest Gallagher, said he was jolted awake by a “loud boom” and the smell of burning plastic. “I saw a car on fire,” he said, but noted he didn’t see any visible plane wreckage.
The homes affected are part of a military housing community, and nearby neighborhoods have been evacuated out of caution. The San Diego Police Department announced that two local elementary schools were also closed for the day.
Mayor Todd Gloria acknowledged the incident on social media, and the FAA confirmed they are investigating but have not yet released the number of people onboard the aircraft.
Authorities urge the public to avoid the area as crews continue emergency operations and cleanup efforts.
