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Philadelphia plane crash victims identified

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Philadelphia plane crash victims identified

Authorities have identified three of the six victims involved in the tragic Learjet 55 plane crash in Pennsylvania, which claimed the lives of all on board, including a young girl.

The aircraft was piloted by Captain Alan Montoya and co-pilot Josué Juárez, who were transporting the child patient Valentina Guzman Murillo and her mother, Lizeth Murillo Osuna and medical personnel Flight Paramedic – Rodrigo Lopez back to Mexico after the girl had received life-saving treatment at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia.

The aircraft was piloted by Captain Alan Montoya and co-pilot Josué Juárez, who were transporting the child patient Valentina Guzman Murillo and her mother, Lizeth Murillo Osuna and medical personnel Flight Paramedic - Rodrigo Lopez back to Mexico after the girl had received life-saving treatment at Shriners Children's Philadelphia.

Dr. Raúl Meza, a distinguished neonatologist, was also among the victims. XE Médica Ambulancia confirmed his identity in a statement posted on X, noting that Dr. Meza served as the head of neonatology and provided professional services for the XA-UCI air ambulance.

He completed his medical studies at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and specialized in pediatrics and neonatology at the National Institute of Pediatrics. Dr. Meza was assigned to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at ISEM Atizapán.

The incident occurred Friday evening as the Learjet 55, operated by Jet Rescue, was en route from Philadelphia to Mexico.

According to Flightradar data, the aircraft had ascended to 1,650 feet before experiencing a rapid descent at a rate of 11,008 feet per minute.

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Chilling audio recordings have surfaced, capturing the final communications between the plane’s crew and air traffic controllers. In the minutes leading up to the crash, the pilot was heard discussing frequency settings with the controller, followed by a cryptic comment about “talking with the wrong people.”

Shortly thereafter, an unsettling moan was audible, believed to have originated from the cockpit. Moments later, a dispatcher queried, “What’s going on down there?” and received the grim response, “We have a lost aircraft. We’re not exactly sure what happened; we’re trying to figure it out. For now, the field is going to be closed.”

The young girl, a patient at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia, had traveled to the U.S. with sponsorship from a third-party charity to receive critical medical care.

The hospital released a statement expressing their condolences: “The patient had received care from Shriners Children’s Philadelphia and was being transported back to her home country in Mexico on a contracted air ambulance when the crash occurred.”

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences, stating, “I regret the death of six Mexicans in the plane crash in Philadelphia. The consular authorities are in permanent contact with the families.”

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U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy briefed President Donald Trump about the incident. President Trump later addressed the tragedy on Truth Social, saying, “So sad to see the plane go down in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

More innocent souls lost. Our people are totally engaged. First Responders are already being given credit for doing a great job. More to follow. God Bless you all.”

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, with the NTSB leading the probe. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.


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9/11 survivor Firefighter Thomas Dunn took his own life

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It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Firefighter Thomas Dunn of Engine 234, who died on February 1, 2025, in Florida. Born on December 9, 1972, Thomas courageously served with the FDNY, demonstrating unwavering dedication and heroism during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Firefighter Thomas Dunn of Engine 234, who died on February 1, 2025, in Florida.

Born on December 9, 1972, Thomas courageously served with the FDNY, demonstrating unwavering dedication and heroism during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Thomas survived both tower collapses on that fateful day and spent months at Ground Zero, tirelessly searching through the rubble for victims.

The aftermath of his selfless service left lasting scars, as he battled years of chronic asthma, severe respiratory issues, and recurring health complications attributed to prolonged exposure to toxic fumes and debris from the smoldering pile.

Despite his valiant spirit, Thomas faced immense personal struggles related to his 9/11-related illnesses.

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On February 1, 2025, he tragically took his own life. His passing is a stark reminder of the enduring sacrifices made by first responders long after the sirens have faded.

His uncle shared with Channel 2 News, “Thomas was a true hero who carried the weight of 9/11 every day. His bravery saved lives, but the invisible wounds took their toll. We will never forget.”

The Dunn family has requested a private service to honor Thomas’s memory. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

Rest in peace, Firefighter Thomas Dunn—brave guardian, beloved friend, and cherished member of St. John’s East E234/L123/Batt38.
Never Forget.


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