TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Two people are confirmed dead after a small jet carrying five people crashed on I-75 and collided with a vehicle, according to officials.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the Bombardier Challenger 600 jet crashed around 3:15 p.m. in the southbound lanes of I-75 near mile marker 107 at Pine Ridge Road in Collier County.
The plane and two vehicles in the southbound lanes were involved in the crash, according to Florida Highway Patrol.
The pilot reported a dual engine failure while on approach to the Naples airport, according to a spokesperson for the National Transportation Safety Board.
WBBH in Fort Myers reported that three people survived.
The plane departed Ohio State University Airport in Columbus, Ohio, and was headed for the Naples Airport, according to multiple flight tracking websites. NBC affiliate WCMH in Columbus reported that the plane was not affiliated with the university.
The plane is registered to a company out of Broward County, according to FAA registration data.
Video shows heavy smoke from the aircraft as cars were at a standstill.
The northbound lanes of I-75 reopened at 7:40 p.m., however, the southbound lanes are expected to remain closed for a longer period of time, FHP said. Drivers in the area are reminded not to stop, stand or park on the side of the highway.
The National Transportation Safety Board will take over the investigation, according to the FAA.
The NTSB said an investigator arrived at the crash site Friday afternoon and several more are expected on Saturday.
No other details were immediately provided.
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