Trey Howard, a 10-year-old boy who protected his younger sister during a horrific plane crash in Philadelphia, is recovering after doctors performed emergency brain surgery to save his life. His first concern after waking up from the procedure was not himself but whether his sister was safe.
Howard and his family were in their car near Roosevelt Mall on Friday evening when a Learjet 55 crashed just feet away, sending debris flying through the air. His father, Andre Howard Jr., described the scene as something out of a war zone, with burning cars and metal raining down.
In the crucial seconds before impact, Trey pulled his sister close and told her to get down. Moments later, he was struck in the head by a large piece of wreckage. “I turned around, and he had metal sticking out of his head,” his father recalled.
Doctors at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia worked urgently to save Trey’s life, warning the family that his chances of survival were uncertain. However, he defied the odds and is now conscious and recovering. His father said his first words after waking up brought him to tears: “Daddy, did I save my sister?”
The crash claimed the lives of seven people, including four crew members, a mother and daughter on the medical transport flight, and a man in a passing vehicle. Officials said 24 others sustained injuries in the disaster.
Trey’s bravery has inspired many, including Philadelphia 76ers player Tyrese Maxey, who visited him in the hospital. His family remains hopeful as he continues his recovery, grateful for the outpouring of support from their community.
