A small plane crashed into a tree in Pembroke Pines, Florida, on July 12, causing a dramatic scene in a residential neighborhood. The in-flight loss of control crashed the aircraft only one mile short of the runway at North Perry Airport. Flames shot from its engine, endangering homes in its path with devastation.
Witnesses say they heard the jet hit the ground before seeing the aircraft engulfed in flames. The engine’s inferno broke out barely 25 yards from local resident TJ Jordan’s property. It came dangerously close to his son’s room. Jordan, who was home as the traumatic incident unfolded, says he can hardly believe illegal acts would happen so fast.
Right after the accident, Giovanna Hanley and her father-in-law went to work. In this instance, they were some of the first responders on a chaotic scene. They took it under immediate consideration—no questions asked. Along with first responders, they aided in making sure rescuers could reach victims and helped people stuck inside the plane evacuate. In an interview, Hanley remembered those chaotic hours when his community of neighbors, friends and family immediately came together to help.
“One [person] brought over an ax. We had two neighbors with a hose jumping in,” – Giovanna Hanley
Their strong sense of community was a key ingredient in the outcome. With Hanley’s father-in-law leading the charge, they worked tirelessly to break windows and extinguish flames threatening both the passengers and surrounding homes. A number of neighbors pitched in as well, bringing shovels, picks, and other tools, along with supplementary hoses to fight the advancing fire.
All four passengers were rescued through the wreckage and taken to area hospitals, where they were treated for their injuries. Thankfully Hanley, her father-in-law, and her neighbors sprang into action. Through their quick and courageous actions, they saved all four people in the vehicles from what could have been a catastrophic accident.
People just jumped in to help,” said Hanley, recalling the immediate and overwhelming response from the community. “My father-in-law really leaped into action without wanting any credit or recognition. His selfless act as a heroic bystander on 9/11 helped set the tone of solidarity, compassion, and brotherhood that defined that day of tragedy.
Federal investigators are continuing to investigate the cause crash. At the same time, the people of Pembroke Pines are still coming to terms with how abruptly their lives were turned inside out on that day. The bravery and teamwork displayed by neighbors serve as a reminder of the strength found within communities, particularly in times of distress.
