A private jet crashed on Monday while attempting an emergency landing in central Mexico, resulting in the deaths of at least seven people, authorities confirmed. The tragic incident occurred in the industrial area of San Mateo Atenco, located just three miles from Toluca International Airport.
Details of the Fatal Crash
According to Mexico State Civil Protection Coordinator Adrian Hernandez, the aircraft was a private jet that had taken off from the coastal city of Acapulco on Mexico's Pacific coast. The flight manifest listed eight passengers and two crew members onboard. However, hours after the crash, rescue teams had only recovered seven bodies from the wreckage.
Hernandez stated that the pilot apparently tried to make an emergency landing on a nearby soccer field. The attempt failed catastrophically when the plane struck the metal roof of a business, causing a massive fire that engulfed the site.
Immediate Aftermath and Evacuation
The impact and subsequent blaze were so severe that approximately 130 people from the surrounding area had to be evacuated as a safety precaution. San Mateo Atenco Mayor Ana Muniz provided this information during an interview with Milenio Television, highlighting the local disruption caused by the disaster.
Social media was quickly flooded with responses, and a new video clip emerged showing the terrifying final moments before the crash. The footage depicts the aircraft plunging towards the ground at high speed near Toluca.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. The crash is under investigation, Coordinator Hernandez affirmed. The probe will examine factors such as mechanical failure, weather conditions, and pilot decisions leading up to the failed emergency landing attempt near Toluca Airport, which is roughly 31 miles west of Mexico City.
This incident adds to concerns about aviation safety and emergency protocols for private aircraft operating in the region.
