Trey Howard GoFundMe raises over $85,000 as Philadelphia boy hailed as a hero for saving sister during plane crash

No survivors expected after air ambulance crashes in Philadelphia - Source: Getty
Philadelphia plane crash (Image via Getty)

Trey Howard, a ten-year-old boy from Philadelphia, has won hearts with his heroic gesture as he jumped to save his four-year-old sister during the deadly plane crash. After a medical jet crashed in a neighborhood in Philadelphia, many people were injured. Howard is being praised throughout the community and the internet for shielding his sister.

However, he could not save himself from a serious injury. According to his GoFundMe page, his mother, Lashawn Hamiel, revealed how her son is facing a head injury. Hamiel wrote:

"On Friday, January 31, 2025, around 6 pm tragedy struck in Philadelphia when a plane crashed and caused debris to fall. While trying to protect his 4yrs old sister, a piece of debris went through the car's windshield, piercing 10-year-old Andre Howard III in his head causing serious injuries. Now, Andre faces a long and difficult road to recovery."

For his recovery, his mother is seeking funds. She added:

"Andre’s family is overwhelmed with the emotional and financial burden of this unexpected tragedy. His medical care, which includes surgeries, therapy, and ongoing treatment, will be extensive. While Andre’s strength and resilience shine through, his recovery will require time, care, and resources."

So far, she has raised over $85,000 (at the time of writing this article).

These funds will cover Trey Howard's medical expenses, rehabilitation, and physical therapy. Moreover, the funds will also aid in his family's well-being.


What happened to Trey Howard?

According to FOX 29, Trey Howard went on a doughnut run with his father and little sister in the area where the tragedy unfolded on January 31, 2025. His father told some local media channels that as debris fell to the ground, Trey shielded his little sister to save her life. Trey's father told ABC 6 Action News:

"Heard what we thought was a car crash, but then you see a fury of fire in the air, then a bunch of debris shooting everywhere."

He further revealed how Trey told his sister to "get down" and then grabbed her. However, a piece of metal pierced through Trey's head and left him injured.

"I hear the glass shatter. I turn around, there's a piece of metal sticking out of my son's head from the plane."

Following the tragedy, Trey Howard had to undergo an emergency brain surgery. According to reports, he was in stable condition at the hospital.

Those who have been donating funds for Trey have also been sending their best wishes to him. They are also hailing him for his brave efforts to save his sister while risking his own life.

Edited by Sarah Nazamuddin Harniswala
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