DeSantis compares Florida jet crash to a ‘missile coming down’ as 600 residents face displacement
Press Conference Following Today's Tragic Incident: Governor Ron DeSantis joined local officials to give an update and address the community. The crash caused significant debris, damage to surrounding infrastructure, and prompted road closures and evacuations in the adjacent community. Approximately 600 residents are being assisted with temporary shelter and other essential needs. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to contact the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office at 561-688-3375. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their loved ones, first responders, and everyone impacted by this tragic incident.
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) November 1, 2026
GREENACRES, FLORIDA: Florida Gov Ron DeSantis said the deadly Learjet 60 crash in Greenacres caused significant damage to surrounding infrastructure, describing the aircraft's descent as being like “a missile coming down.”
The November 1 crash killed all nine people aboard and left hundreds of residents facing displacement as authorities secured the affected neighborhood.
Ron DeSantis details deadly Greenacres Learjet crash damage
Speaking near the crash site, Ron DeSantis called the incident a “cataclysmic plane crash” and said the aircraft left a large crater beside the road.
He also pointed to the extensive debris scattered across the area, saying the damage extended over a significant distance.
The governor praised emergency responders for their quick action following the crash.
He said initial reports indicated that no one on the ground had been killed or injured, although the full extent of the damage was still being assessed.
The crash occurred near the entrance to the Cresthaven mobile home community, leaving residents unable to use their usual access route while authorities secured the area for the investigation.
Palm Beach County Commissioner Joel Flores said around 600 people needed temporary shelter and food.
Officials arranged to relocate residents to two county shelters, while the Red Cross stood by to provide additional assistance.
Nearby businesses were also affected by the road closures and emergency response.
Military Trail closure may last 30 days after jet crash
Military Trail was closed between 10th Avenue North and Purdy Lane/Alameda Drive following the crash, with only emergency vehicles permitted in the restricted area.
Authorities advised motorists to use alternative routes while crews worked around the crash site.
Palm Beach County Commissioner Joel Flores warned that the road could remain closed for up to 30 days, reflecting the extent of the damage and the work required before it could safely reopen.
The closure also complicated access for residents of the nearby mobile home community.
BREAKING: New footage captures the aircraft crash in Greenacres, Florida. Preliminary information suggests the aircraft that crashed is a business jet. https://t.co/pMEsJerhgZ
— AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) November 1, 2026
The Learjet 60 had departed Austin, Texas, and was travelling to North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas when it crashed shortly before 1 pm on November 1. All nine people aboard were killed.
Air traffic control recordings captured the crew reporting icing and turbulence before declaring an emergency as the aircraft entered a rapid descent.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assisting. Investigators have not yet established what caused the crash.
