In a devastating incident near Washington D.C., an American Airlines regional jet collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in the deaths of all 67 individuals aboard both aircraft. The crash occurred as the passenger jet, operating as Flight 5342 from Wichita, Kansas, was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m. local time. The collision caused both aircraft to plummet into the icy waters of the Potomac River.
Emergency response teams, including over 300 first responders and divers, have been tirelessly working to recover bodies from the near-freezing river. As of now, 28 bodies have been retrieved, with no signs of survivors among the 60 passengers and four crew members of the jet, as well as the three soldiers aboard the helicopter. The recovery efforts are being hampered by challenging conditions, including strong winds and low water temperatures.
The collision has sent shockwaves through various communities, notably the U.S. figure skating world, as several skaters and coaches were reportedly on the ill-fated flight. Among the victims are Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, the 1994 world champions in pair skating. Their loss has left the figure skating community in mourning.
Authorities have shifted their focus from rescue to recovery operations, acknowledging the grim reality that no survivors are expected. DC Fire Chief John Donnelly emphasized the commitment to recovering and identifying all victims to provide closure for their families. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the cause of this tragic accident, which has been described as highly complex.
The incident has also raised concerns about aviation safety protocols, particularly regarding air traffic control and the aging infrastructure of Reagan National Airport. President Donald Trump has questioned how such a collision could occur on a clear night, calling for a thorough investigation into the actions of both the air traffic controllers and the helicopter pilot. As the investigation unfolds, the nation mourns the loss of those who perished in this unprecedented tragedy.
