San Diego, CA - Six Feared Dead, Several Hurt After Plane Crash in Murphy Canyon

San Diego, CA (May 23, 2025) - Six people were feared dead after a small jet they were in flew through dense fog and crashed in a residential San Diego neighborhood early Thursday morning, injuring eight others on the ground and damaging 10 homes, officials said.

The jet, a Cessna Citation, crashed in Murphy Canyon near the Tierrasanta neighborhood just before 4:00 a.m., forcing the evacuation of about 100 people, the San Diego Police Department and San Diego Fire-Rescue Department said.

At least two people who were on the plane died, authorities confirmed initially. The Federal Aviation Administration said later on Thursday that there had been six people aboard the plane. Meanwhile, no additional information has been disclosed in the interim, and an investigation proceeds.

We extend our deepest condolences to the deceased victims' loved ones. Our thoughts are with those injured in this incident, and we hope for their quick recovery.

Aviation Accidents in California

Plane crashes are rare but often result in devastating consequences for victims and their families. In California, a hub for private aviation, these incidents raise significant legal questions about liability and compensation. From mechanical failures to pilot error, determining the cause of a crash is a crucial step in pursuing justice.

Victims of small plane crashes may face catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional trauma. In cases involving fatalities, families may pursue wrongful death claims. Under California law, potential defendants can include the pilot, plane owner, aircraft manufacturer, or maintenance providers, depending on the crash's circumstances. Aviation law often intersects with personal injury law, requiring an understanding of both federal regulations and state negligence standards.

Plaintiffs must typically prove that the responsible party’s negligence contributed to the crash or that a defective component caused the accident. Working with experienced attorneys can help ensure access to critical evidence, including flight records, maintenance logs, and expert testimony.

Compensation in these cases may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages in cases of gross negligence. For victims and their families, understanding their legal rights is essential to navigating the aftermath of a tragedy and achieving fair restitution.

Moreover, consulting qualified legal counsel as soon as possible after being involved in an accident, whether it be for yourself or a loved one, can be an important step toward rehabilitation and the pursuit of justice. Please get in touch with our personal injury attorneys at Countrywide Trial Lawyers as soon as possible. Give us a call at 844-844-9119 to receive the compassionate and individualized guidance that you are entitled to right away.