Coordinated Response to Mass Disaster: Lessons Learned from the January 31, 2025, Philadelphia Plane Crash

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM MT

Location: Mile High Ballroom 2C/3C, Colorado Convention Center

The January 31, 2025, plane crash involving a medical transport aircraft in a busy Philadelphia neighborhood was a significant tragedy that required complex coordination among local, state, federal, and international agencies. This panel, featuring key leaders who directed the response, will examine the expanded role of law enforcement during large-scale incidents. Topics include initial response and scene control, challenges in victim identification, collaboration with federal and international partners, and the critical coordination necessary for effective communication and support. Panelists will share key lessons learned from the event, offering insights into the evolving responsibilities of law enforcement during mass casualty incidents.

Submitter and Speaker(s)

Michael Garvey, Ph.D.

Executive Director
Philadelphia Police Department
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Speaker(s)

John Grassel, M.S.

Chair, IACP Forensics Committee/Senior Forensics Manager
RTI International
Johns Island, South Carolina, United States
Timothy Brooks

Detective
Philadelphia Police Department
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Mary Catherine McBride

Forensic Laboratory Manager, Criminalistics Unit
Philadelphia Police Department
CO

Carlos Obrador

Head Consul of Mexico
Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia