Small Plane Crash Sparks Federal Investigation Near Boca Raton Airport

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Emergency response, traffic closures, and community impact follow Cessna 310R crash

Image: The site of a small plane crash in Boca, Raton, Fla., Apr. 11, 2025. Miguel Coka | from ABC News

BOCA RATON, FL — A small twin-engine Cessna 310R aircraft crashed Friday morning near the Boca Raton Airport, killing all three people onboard and injuring one person on the ground, according to local officials.

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The aircraft departed Boca Raton Airport at approximately 10:00 a.m., bound for Tallahassee International Airport. Roughly 20 minutes into the flight, the plane began experiencing mechanical issues before crashing near the 1900 block of Military Trail, west of I-95.

The crash caused a fireball on impact and sent a plume of smoke into the air, rattling buildings in the surrounding area.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a plane crash occurred earlier today within our community,” said Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer. “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic event. We ask for patience and respect for the families involved as investigations continue.”

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Michael LaSalle, Assistant Fire Chief with Boca Raton Fire Rescue, confirmed that all three people aboard the aircraft died at the scene. A motorist in the area was also injured when his vehicle struck a tree—likely due to falling debris and fire. He was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Officials provide updates following the deadly plane crash in Boca Raton | From: YouTube

Flight data from FlightRadar24 showed the plane circling the airport multiple times before going down. Eyewitness accounts describe a terrifying sequence of low passes before a loud crash and explosion.

“I saw the plane flying extremely low—it looked like it was going to hit the building,” said Dillon Smith, a witness who spoke to WPBF. “Then I heard a loud boom. The windows shook, and I saw a fireball.”

View the Full Press Conference:

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Watch the official update from Boca Fire Rescue on YouTube:
Press Conference – April 11 Plane Crash

Police & Traffic Update:

The Boca Raton Police Department issued an update confirming major road closures in the area that remain in effect until further notice:

  • Military Trail between Butts Road and NW 19th Street
  • Glades Road from Renaissance Way to Airport Road (east & westbound)
  • Southbound I-95: 2 lanes closed near Glades Road
  • I-95 westbound ramps to Glades Road

Tri-Rail Service Affected:

Tri-Rail also announced delays due to the crash, which occurred near railroad tracks. A bus bridge has been established between the Deerfield Beach and Boca Raton stations. Rail service continues north of Boca and south of Deerfield, but commuters are advised to seek alternate transportation and follow @tri_rail on Twitter for live updates.

Investigation Underway

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The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.


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