A private jet carrying nine people crashed into a residential area in Palm Beach County, Florida, on Sunday afternoon while flying from Texas to the Bahamas, US authorities said.
The Learjet 60 came down near Cresthaven at about 12.50pm local time on November 1, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The aircraft had departed from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and was bound for North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas.
It crashed close to Military Trail and 10th Avenue North, where footage showed flames and a large crater in the road. The aircraft appeared to come down just short of nearby homes, although officials had not immediately confirmed whether anyone on the ground was hurt.
Learjet crash investigation
The FAA said nine people were on board the private jet. The identities and conditions of those aboard had not been released.
The National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation, with the FAA also involved. A preliminary report is expected to be issued, usually on the next working day, although the cause of the crash was not immediately known.
Investigators will examine the aircraft, flight data and wreckage as they establish what happened during the flight and why it came down before reaching the Bahamas.
