On Sunday, a Learjet slammed into Military Trail in Greenacres, Florida, killing all nine people on board, according to WPBF. The aircraft was carrying 55‑year‑old pilot Jeff Gregory and 20‑year‑old copilot Nathalia Filgueiras, who had logged more than 1,300 flight hours.
Friday, Allen Filgueiras, the grieving father of the young copilot, addressed the media for the first time. He described his lifelong love of aviation, which he shared with his daughter, noting that she earned her pilot’s license at 17 and that they often flew together, sometimes swapping instructor roles. “She showed me what it is to be a hero,” he said, recalling his daughter’s dedication and the pride he feels despite his loss.
Filgueiras’ attorneys also responded to public criticism about his daughter’s age and experience. Stuart Grossman, representing the family, said, “When you read that someone’s 20 years old and a copilot in a jet plane, you say, how can this be? Well, wait until you see her hours and what the government proves about her capabilities and what her instructors had to say.” The attorneys emphasized that no lawsuit is being filed at this time.
Air‑traffic‑control recordings captured Nathalia’s final communications, including a “Mayday, Mayday” call and a later transmission stating, “We are out of time.” Her father said he has listened to the recordings repeatedly, seeking any clue about the aircraft’s final moments.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues its investigation, having recovered a portion of one engine and major pieces of the jet’s left elevator, a tail control surface. Those components were found between 1.3 and 3.8 miles from the impact site, indicating they separated from the aircraft before it struck the ground. The board has not yet determined the cause of the crash or whether either pilot’s actions contributed to the accident.
Local residents expressed shock at the tragedy, and officials extended condolences to the families of all nine victims. As the investigation proceeds, the community awaits further findings that may clarify the circumstances surrounding the crash.
What’s next: The NTSB expects to release additional analysis of the recovered wreckage in the coming weeks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets for updates on the investigation and any safety recommendations that may arise.
Sources: wpbf.com
