Bower said that the young girl likely enjoyed her end-of-treatment celebration earlier on Friday.
She spoke of the staff’s dedication to making the hospital a joyful and welcoming place for patients such as the girl.
The girl’s mother, along with a pilot, co-pilot, doctor, and paramedic, each committed to ensuring her safe return, were also on board the aircraft.
However, in a heartbreaking turn of events, the journey ended in tragedy.
Shriners Children’s Philadelphia extended their condolences to the families of the medical crew, pilots, and those affected on the ground. The hospital also expressed gratitude to first responders for their swift actions.
The air ambulance was en route to Tijuana, Mexico, with a planned stop at Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri.
Shortly after departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, the aircraft suddenly lost altitude and crashed into a densely populated area in northern Philadelphia at around 6:30 p.m.
An eye witness shared that the impact near Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard sparked a “big ball of fire,” engulfing nearby buildings and vehicles in flames. Another person who witnessed the crash noted that a gas station was shaking and debris started flying all over when the aircraft came.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said on February 1 that officers and responders worked on the crash site throughout the night.
She confirmed that six lives on board the plane were lost as well as one person who was in a car when the aircraft crashed.
Parker added that 19 people were injured in the incident and were being treated in local hospitals.
Source: amomama
