Two people died and four others were hospitalized after a private jet crash-landed on a Texas highway Tuesday night, splitting apart and bursting into flames as witnesses rushed to help those trapped inside.
Fox News reported the aircraft crashed on Texas State Highway Loop 20 in Laredo around 10 p.m. after departing from Los Cabos International Airport in Mexico and heading to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, authorities said.
Dramatic video from the scene showed the plane skidding across the highway, striking street lights and breaking apart on a concrete median before catching fire.
A desperate rescue effort unfolds after a business jet slams onto a Texas highway and catches fire.
— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 17, 2026
Video shows the aircraft blocking part of Loop 20 in Laredo while first responders and civilians rush toward the burning wreckage, trying to smash cockpit windows and pull people… pic.twitter.com/0921UJ9KjN
Witnesses immediately ran toward the wreckage to help survivors escape. According to reports, two bystanders used a sledgehammer and shovel to force open the aircraft door and assist passengers.
Zayra Garza, who witnessed the aftermath and shared video on social media, told The Associated Press the scene looked “like part of a movie.”
“What was worrying me was the fire,” Garza said. “I was concerned that it could have just exploded at any time.”
Order Abby Trivett’s New Book, “The Power of Suddenly” on Amazon.com!
Authorities initially reported one fatality before updating the death toll to two on Wednesday morning.
Jose Baeza, an investigator with the Laredo Police Department, said a vehicle traveling on the highway was partially struck by the aircraft during the crash. At least five first responders were also treated for smoke inhalation.
The identities of those aboard the aircraft have not been released. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The aircraft was operated by NetJets, which said in a statement that it is cooperating with authorities.
As we await answers, let us pray for the families who lost loved ones, for the survivors recovering from their injuries and for the first responders who courageously answered the call in the midst of this tragedy.
James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
