NTSB says jet that crashed in Florida, killing 9, may have broken up before impact

"We do have some evidence that there was some breakup of the aircraft before impact," Chapman said, adding that investigators are still working to confirm it, NBC News reported. The jet had left Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas for North Eleuthera in the Bahamas and crashed at about 12:50 p.m. near a road in Greenacres, about 7 miles southwest of West Palm Beach.

The crew reported light ice and moderate turbulence and asked to climb, which air traffic control approved; less than 30 seconds later, the plane reported a descent and a mayday call followed, Chapman said. Seven passengers and two crew members were aboard. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said there were no immediate reports of anyone on the ground being hurt, NPR reported, and residents of about 77 nearby mobile homes were evacuated, according to AP.

Why it matters: The NTSB said weather conditions will be a major focus of the investigation.