Small Plane Crash Devastates San Diego Neighborhood

Tone & Political Bias: Center

Why: The reporting is purely factual, focused on the event and emergency response, with no political commentary.

What Happened

In the early morning hours of Thursday, May 22, 2025, a Cessna 550 aircraft crashed into the Murphy Canyon neighborhood of San Diego, California. The crash occurred around 3:45 a.m. near Sculpin Street and Santo Road, close to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport.

Impact on the Community

• Fatalities: Everyone aboard the aircraft was killed. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number of people on board.

• Property Damage: The crash sparked fires that damaged at least 15 homes and multiple vehicles.

• Evacuations: Roughly 100 residents in the area were evacuated.

• Injuries on the Ground: No injuries among local residents have been reported.

  
  

Emergency Response

San Diego Fire-Rescue responded swiftly, supported by hazmat teams and military personnel. Firefighters worked to put out multiple structure fires, search for victims, and contain leaking jet fuel. Assistant Fire Chief Dan Eddy described the aftermath as a “gigantic debris field” with jet fuel spread across the area.

Investigation

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation. Preliminary details suggest that the aircraft was attempting to land at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport under dense fog and low visibility conditions. Officials have not yet released details on the flight’s origin or purpose.

Context

Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport serves a high volume of small private and business aircraft. The Murphy Canyon area, where the crash occurred, is a densely populated residential neighborhood and is home to many military families due to its proximity to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.

Ongoing Developments

Authorities are continuing their recovery and cleanup efforts. Residents have been advised to avoid the area while emergency services and investigators work at the scene. The FAA and NTSB will release updates as more information becomes available.