Small Plane Crashes on Texas Highway, Sparks Fire

A small plane crashed onto a highway in southern Texas late Tuesday night (local time), prompting an emergency rescue operation as flames erupted from the aircraft and crews rushed to free those trapped inside, AP reported.

The crash occurred shortly after 10pm in the city of Laredo, according to Jose Baeza, an investigator with the local police department.

Authorities said the aircraft came down on Loop 20, a major roadway that was subsequently shut down in both directions.

The number of people on board the plane and the extent of their injuries were not immediately known.

Officials were still working to assess the situation and provide medical assistance to those involved.

Dramatic videos shared online showed the aircraft lying on its side against a highway barrier as flames and smoke surrounded the wreckage.

In the footage, emergency responders can be seen racing toward the plane and attempting to smash a cockpit window in an effort to rescue people trapped inside.

Despite the crash occurring on an active highway, authorities said there were no immediate reports of injuries to motorists traveling on Loop 20 at the time of the incident.

Emergency crews remained at the scene late into the night, while investigators began examining what may have caused the aircraft to crash.

Officials have not yet released details about the plane, its flight path or the circumstances leading up to the accident.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other agencies are expected to investigate the crash.

Further information on the condition of those on board is awaited.