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A father and husband was tragically killed after a NetJets-operated business jet crashed onto a highway in Laredo, Texas, late Tuesday night.
Jet Was Headed From Cabo to Austin
The NetJets-operated Cessna Citation Latitude business jet, tail number N523QS, departed from San José del Cabo, Mexico, bound for Austin, Texas, at approximately 6:19 p.m. Tuesday evening.
According to preliminary reports, the aircraft later diverted toward Laredo International Airport before crashing onto Bob Bullock Loop (Texas State Highway Loop 20) at approximately 9:58 p.m. on June 16, 2026. Authorities say the aircraft struck at least one vehicle as it came down.
The jet burst into flames upon impact, sending thick black smoke into the air and prompting an immediate emergency response.
Video captured at the scene shows the aircraft lying on its side as emergency responders and bystanders worked to rescue those trapped inside. Witnesses can be seen attempting to open the aircraft’s cabin door and break the cockpit windshield while assisting survivors from the wreckage.
The Laredo Police Department has asked anyone with dashcam footage or video recordings of the crash to submit the material through its public evidence portal to assist investigators.
5 Injured During Rescue Effort
The Laredo Police Department also reported that five officers suffered injuries during rescue operations and were transported to area hospitals.
As of Wednesday morning, officials had not released additional information regarding the identities of those involved or the extent of their injuries. Portions of Bob Bullock Loop also remained closed as emergency crews worked to remove the wreckage and address spilled jet fuel before the highway could fully reopen.
NetJets stated that it is working with local authorities to confirm details surrounding the crash and has deployed crisis response and family support teams to assist those affected.
Plane Reported In-Flight Emergency Before Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are now investigating the crash.
According to preliminary reports, the crew advised air traffic controllers that the aircraft was experiencing an in-flight emergency while approaching Laredo International Airport. The aircraft diverted from its original destination in Austin and attempted to land in Laredo before crashing approximately 2.5 miles short of the runway.
Flight radar data appears to show the aircraft descending toward the airport before radar contact was lost at an altitude of roughly 600 feet.
Investigators will now work to determine what caused the emergency, whether the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure, and whether any operational, maintenance, or fuel-related issues contributed to the crash.
What Mechanical Failures Could Investigators Be Examining?
While investigators have not yet identified the cause of the crash, aviation accident investigations involving business jets often focus on several potential mechanical issues, including:
- Engine malfunctions or loss of thrust
- Fuel system failures or fuel starvation
- Electrical system failures affecting navigation or flight controls
- Hydraulic system failures that can impair braking, steering, or flight control surfaces
- Flight instrument or avionics failures
- Problems with the aircraft’s landing gear, flaps, or other systems used during approach and landing
Investigators will review maintenance records, cockpit communications, aircraft performance data, and physical evidence recovered from the wreckage to determine whether a mechanical issue contributed to the crash.
In our experience investigating aviation accidents, many crashes initially attributed to a sudden mechanical problem ultimately trace back to preventable maintenance failures, overlooked warning signs, or safety lapses that should have been identified before the aircraft ever left the ground.
About the Aircraft
Federal Aviation Administration records show the aircraft was manufactured in 2016.
The Cessna Citation Latitude is a midsize business jet capable of carrying up to seven passengers and is widely used for private and corporate travel. The aircraft has a wingspan of approximately 72 feet and can cruise at speeds approaching 500 miles per hour.
Investigators have not indicated whether the age of the aircraft or any specific aircraft system is believed to have contributed to the crash.
About NetJets
NetJets is one of the world’s largest private aviation companies, operating thousands of business aircraft through its fractional ownership, leasing, and jet card programs. The company, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, transports hundreds of thousands of passengers each year throughout North America and internationally.
NetJets stated that it is cooperating fully with federal investigators and has deployed crisis response personnel to assist passengers, families, and authorities in Laredo.
Undefeated Texas Jet Crash Lawyers: Call 1-888-603-3636 For a Free Consult
Our Undefeated Texas Jet Crash Lawyers are investigating the tragic Laredo plane crash and will post updates as new information becomes available.
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