How did Ramesses Vazquez-Viana survive the plane crash?

Ramesses survived by escaping his father's burning car after the medical jet crashed, despite suffering burns to over 90% of his body.

What challenges did Ramesses face during his recovery?

Ramesses underwent numerous surgeries, including partial amputations, and faced the need for lifelong skin grafts due to the severity of his burns.

When did Ramesses return to school after the crash?

Ramesses began attending school virtually a few days a week after being released from rehabilitation in December 2025, with plans to return in person after further recovery.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Miracle Boy Survives Fiery Plane Crash

Miracle Boy Survives Fiery Plane Crash

31 Jan

•

Summary

Boy survives 90% burns after plane crash, showing immense strength.
Community rallies around the young survivor with donations and support.
Over a year later, the boy celebrates recovery milestones with hope.

Ramesses Vazquez-Viana, then just 9 years old, miraculously survived a devastating plane crash on January 31, 2025, in Northeast Philadelphia. The crash caused a fire that engulfed his father's car, resulting in the deaths of his father and his father's girlfriend. Ramesses sustained severe burns to over 90% of his body but managed to escape the vehicle.

His subsequent airlift to a burn center in Boston marked the beginning of a long and arduous recovery. Over four months, he underwent numerous surgeries, including partial amputations of his hands, and faced the prospect of lifelong skin grafts. Doctors described his survival as nothing short of a miracle.

Ramesses' journey was met with widespread support from his school, teachers, firefighters, and the broader Philadelphia community, who organized fundraisers and sent messages of encouragement. His recovery saw significant progress, including regaining hearing and sight, and expressing love to his mother.