SHOCKING video footage shows the moment a Santee plane crashedinto a UPS truck near a high school in Southern California, killing the drivers of both the plane and truck.
The video, captured in a residential area of Santee, near San Diego, shows the Cessna 340 plane shoot suddenly across the screen, followed by an explosion where the plane struck.
The crash occurred around 12:15pm at the intersection of Greencastle and Jeremy Street, near the Santana High School.
In the ensuing chaos, multiple people were trapped and sustained minor injuries.
Local resident Jim Slaff told NBC 7 that his mother and stepfather were watching TV when the plane barrelled into their home, setting it on fire.
A neighbor heard screams and ran over to help, pulling the pair out the window through the flames.
“It’s a war zone. It’s not even a house,” Slaff said.
Andrew Pelloth, 30, said he first thought the crash was caused by a meteorite.
"“My initial thought was that it was a meteorite coming down. I could hear it falling and then some kind of explosion," he told the outlet.
Three hours afterwards, authorities identified that a UPS employee had been trapped in the truck hit by the plane and was killed inside.
UPS later released a statement: “We are heartbroken by the loss of our employee and extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.
"We also send our condolences for the other individuals who are involved in this incident, and their families and friends."
Emergency personnel identified the pilot as Dr. Sugata Das, a cardiologist at Yuma Regional Medical Center in Arizona.
Dr. Bharat Magu, the chief medical officer at the center, told NBC7: "We are deeply sad to hear news of a plane owned by local cardiologist Dr. Sugata Das which crashed near Santee.
“As an outstanding cardiologist and dedicated family man, Dr. Das leaves a lasting legacy.
"We extend our prayers and support to his family, colleagues and friends during this difficult time."
KUSI News later released the final seconds of audio communication between the pilot and a SoCal tower.
Air Traffic Control can be heard saying: "Climb immediately. Climb the airplane, maintain 5000, expedite climb, climb the airplane, please."
After the pilot replied, Air Traffic Control then said, "… You appear to be descending again, sir. Are you… what is your altitude?"
The audio in KUSI's broadcast then cuts out.
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