Incident Overview

• Location: Intersection of Military Trail and Glades Road, Boca Raton, Florida.
• Time: Approximately 10:20 a.m. EDT.
• Aircraft: Cessna 310.
• Fatalities: Three individuals on board the aircraft.
• Injury: One person in a nearby vehicle.

Boca Raton Fire Rescue assistant chief Michael LaSalle confirmed the fatalities, stating that the crash emitted a fireball when it hit the ground. he also noted the impact forced a car onto the railroad tracks, leading to a temporary closure.

Eyewitness Accounts

Witnesses described a scene of chaos and alarm.

We’re just sitting there, and I see the palm trees start catching on fire. I thought it was an oil rig or a car crash type thing.
Josh orsino, 31, who was stopped at a red light nearby, told the Associated Press.

mr. Orsino further explained his immediate reaction:

So, I didn’t know if the fire was going to come towards the vehicles. I mean, my first instinct was like, I got to get off this bridge.I’m getting out of here.
Josh Orsino

Another witness,Miguel Coka,51,who works near the airport,reported the plane appeared to be flying unusually low before the crash.

there was a rumble and everyone in the building felt it. We are all shocked.
Miguel Coka, 51, to the Associated Press.

Mr. Coka captured video footage from his office,showing the smoke and flames engulfing the crash site.

Official Response and Investigation

The Federal Aviation governance (FAA) confirmed the aircraft was en route to Tallahassee after departing from Boca Raton Airport. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated investigations into the cause of the crash, with the NTSB taking the lead.

Community Impact

The crash caused meaningful disruptions to local traffic. Boca Raton Police Department reported the following:

• I-95 overpass at Glades road: Initially closed, but reopened eastbound and westbound by early afternoon.
• North Military trail between NW 19th Street and Butts Road: Remained closed overnight.

Tri-Rail, South Florida’s commuter rail service, also experienced disruptions. The service advised travelers:

Due to a small plane crash near the rail corridor, a bus bridge has been established between Deerfield Beach & Boca Raton Stations. Rail service will continue south of Deerfield & north of boca, however riders may want to seek option transportation due to expected delays.
Tri-Rail via X (formerly Twitter)

Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer issued a statement acknowledging the tragedy:

We are deeply saddened to confirm that a plane crash occurred earlier today within our community. At this time, details are still emerging, and we are working closely with emergency responders and authorities. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic event. We ask for patience and respect for the families involved as investigations continue.
Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer

related Incidents

This crash occurred less than 24 hours after a separate aviation incident in New York City. A helicopter crashed in the Hudson River, resulting in six fatalities. The Bell 206 helicopter, operated by New york Helicopter Charter, reportedly broke apart midair after taking off from the Wall Street Skyport.

Authorities are still investigating if there are any connections between these incidents, though initial reports suggest thay are unrelated.