Small plane crashes into US neighbourhood in 'direct hit to multiple homes'

A small plane has crashed into a San Diego neighbourhood in what authorities are calling a "direct hit to multiple homes".

About 15 homes have caught fire and people living in several blocks are being evacuated.

"We have jet fuel all over the place," assistant fire department chief Dan Eddy told reporters. "Our main goal is to search all these homes and get everybody out right now."

San Diego Police Department (SDPD) confirmed the force was responding to the crash in the neighbourhood of Tierrasanta.

Posting on X, a SDPS spokesperson warned people to avoid the area while emergency crews get to work and urged all those who smell jet fuel or find debris to alert the authorities.

Evacuations are taking place in Salmon Street, Sample Street and Sculpin Street. The southbound Santo Road has also been closed at Aero Drive.

An evacuation site has been set up at Miller Elementary School.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow us on WhatsApp and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.