BREAKING TRAGEDY: Small Aircraft Crashes Near Yankee Stadium, Game Postponed Amid Emergency Response
May 20, 2025 | Bronx, NY — By ChatGPT Newsroom
In a devastating incident that has shaken New York City, a small aircraft crashed just blocks from Yankee Stadium Tuesday afternoon, prompting a full-scale emergency response and the postponement of tonight’s Yankees-Rangers game.
The aircraft, a single-engine Piper Malibu, went down at approximately 2:43 PM ET near River Avenue and East 161st Street — less than 500 feet from the stadium’s Gate 6 entrance. Witnesses described a terrifying scene as the plane descended rapidly, clipped a nearby construction crane, and burst into flames upon impact with a rooftop parking facility.
“It was like a fireball fell from the sky,” said Luis Ortega, a vendor setting up for the game. “The ground shook, alarms went off, people screamed and ran. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
The NYPD, FDNY, and Port Authority units were on scene within minutes, extinguishing the blaze and securing the area. According to city officials, five people aboard the plane were killed, including the pilot. Two bystanders on the ground sustained serious injuries and are being treated at Lincoln Medical Center.
Initial reports indicate the aircraft was en route to Westchester County Airport and had issued a mayday due to mechanical failure shortly before crashing. The FAA and NTSB have launched a joint investigation.
As plumes of smoke billowed over the stadium, the Yankees organization quickly suspended pregame activities and evacuated staff and media personnel. Team sources confirmed that no players were harmed, though several were in the nearby players’ lot when the crash occurred.
In a statement, the Yankees said:
> “We are heartbroken by today’s tragedy and extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families. The safety of our fans, players, and community remains our top priority. Tonight’s game has been postponed, and we will provide further updates as information becomes available.”
Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul have been briefed on the situation and praised the rapid response of first responders.
Security remains heightened throughout the Bronx, and road closures have snarled traffic throughout the Grand Concourse and surrounding areas.
This is a developing story.
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