San Diego, California — A small plane crash claimed the lives of at least two individuals Thursday morning when the aircraft plummeted onto a residential street in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood. The incident resulted in one home being completely destroyed and several others facing significant damage.

Emergency responders reported that at least eight people on the ground suffered minor injuries. While one person required hospitalization, the rest were treated at the scene. Approximately 100 residents were evacuated as authorities worked to secure the area surrounding the crash site.

The aircraft involved was identified as a Cessna 550, which has the capacity to accommodate eight to ten passengers, including the pilot, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Details regarding the identities of the deceased and the passengers on board have not yet been disclosed.

Assistant Fire Department Chief Dan Eddy described the chaotic scene, stating, “There’s plane debris everywhere.” He explained the extensive damage caused by the crash, noting the aircraft’s high speed significantly increased the destructive impact. Earlier, he confirmed that multiple homes were hit directly, yet no serious injuries were reported among the residents of those properties.

Video footage from the aftermath showcased charred vehicles strewn across the street, indicating the crash’s violent nature. Local resident Christopher Moore recounted the terrifying experience of hearing a loud explosion in the early morning hours. Waking up to smoke filling their home, he and his wife quickly gathered their two young children and fled the premises. Once outside, they encountered a car engulfed in flames.

Moore described the ordeal as “definitely horrifying.” He emphasized the necessity of remaining focused on safety during such a crisis. Another resident, a marine living nearby, reported hearing a peculiar whistling sound followed by a resounding boom that shook his house.

Preliminary reports suggest the Cessna was en route to Montgomery Field, located about six miles north of downtown San Diego. Flight data and additional details about the aircraft’s flight path are under investigation as officials seek to understand how the tragedy unfolded. Authorities continue to gather information and provide support to affected residents as this situation evolves.