Three killed as small plane crashes in Florida, US

Small plane crashes onto Tri-Rail tracks near I-95 in Boca Raton shortly after takeoff, FAA confirms.

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Three people were killed and one injured after a small aircraft crashed onto Tri-Rail tracks near I-95 in Boca Raton, Florida, US on Friday morning. The crash occurred around 10:20 am, shortly after the Cessna 310 departed Boca Raton Airport en route to Tallahassee International Airport, according to the FAA.

Assistant Fire Chief Michael LaSalle confirmed that all three people on board the aircraft died in the crash. One person on the ground was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, possibly after driving through the resulting fireball.

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.

Following the incident, Boca Raton Police closed North Military Trail between Northwest 19th Street and Butts Road. The I-95 overpass at Glades Road was also shut in both directions, and authorities are urging the public to avoid the area. Police said road closures could last for an extended period.

Chopper footage showed debris scattered across the Tri-Rail tracks, with emergency crews and fire retardant visible at the crash site. A burnt-out vehicle was also spotted near a tree, though it remains unconfirmed if it’s linked to the injured person.

Tri-Rail service has been suspended in the area. A bus bridge is being arranged between Deerfield Beach and Boca Raton stations to assist affected commuters.

Aviation expert Willard Shepard said a witness saw the plane shortly after takeoff and noted it appeared to be in distress, possibly attempting to return to the airport before crashing. Investigators will examine all factors, including mechanical issues and flight path data.

One nearby office worker told CBS News he saw the plane flying unusually low before it disappeared below the treeline. “There was a loud boom, the windows shook, and then a cloud of smoke and fire,” he recalled. Others said the impact felt like an earthquake, shaking nearby buildings.

The investigation remains ongoing.