A small plane crashed in Boca Raton, Florida, around 10:20 a.m. on Friday, killing three individuals aboard and injuring one person on the ground. The Cessna 310, which had taken off from Boca Raton Airport en route to Tallahassee, apparently experienced mechanical issues that forced the pilot to attempt an emergency return. Witnesses described the crash as a “fireball,” with debris scattering across nearby roads and railroad tracks.

Emergency responders reported that the crash occurred near the intersection of Military Trail and Glades Road, shortly after the aircraft departed. Local police confirmed significant road closures, especially on Interstate 95, as investigations proceeded. One nearby motorist sustained non-life-threatening injuries when their vehicle was struck by debris from the crash; they have since been hospitalized.

Authorities have indicated that extensive investigations will be led by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to determine the exact causes of the accident. Witness accounts suggest the aircraft was flying unusually low before the crash, with one observer noting that the sound of the plane seemed abnormal and generated sufficient force to shake nearby buildings.

“Unfortunately, I’m certain lives were lost here today,” a local resident remarked following the incident. Flight tracking data revealed that the plane had been airborne for less than twenty minutes and appeared to circle back toward the airport before the crash.

Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer expressed condolences to the victims' families, stating, “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic event.” Local authorities remain on site to manage the ongoing investigation and cleanup operations, urging residents to avoid the area.

This incident unfolds a day after a helicopter crash in New York's Hudson River, highlighting a concerning trend in aviation safety this week. The FAA and NTSB have vowed to thoroughly examine all factors contributing to this latest tragedy.

As updates emerge, the community remains in mourning, grappling with the impact of this shocking accident.

For more details, visit ABC News.