A mid-air collision occurred between a plane carrying 64 people and a military helicopter, resulting in both devices crashing into the Potomac River on the outskirts of Washington. The incident happened on Wednesday night, and local media reported that several bodies were recovered from the frozen waters.
Response and Investigation
The mayor of Washington, Muriel Bowser, confirmed that the two devices were in the water during a press conference. American Airlines reported that the plane, American Eagle Flight 5342, was on a route from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, with 60 passengers and four crew members on board. The helicopter was a Black Hawk type with three military personnel on board, according to a US army manager.
Casualties and Victims
Reports indicate that at least 18 bodies were recovered, with some sources suggesting that more than a dozen bodies were found. The couple of Russian artistic skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, world champions in 1994, were among the passengers on the plane.
Official Statements
The executive director of American Airlines, Robert Isom, expressed his “deep regret” for the accident in a video on the airline’s website. The Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, posted a message on X stating that the helicopter was on a “training flight.” Kansas Senator Roger Marshall described the incident as a “nightmare” on X.
Witness Accounts
A witness, Ari Schulman, reported seeing “a stream of sparks” and something similar to fireworks when the collision occurred. He told CNN that the plane seemed normal at first but then leaned completely to the right, displaying a bright yellow illumination and a jet of sparks underneath.
Search and Rescue Operations
The airport announced that all takeoffs and landings have been suspended. A search and rescue operation is underway, with police and firefighters participating. Washington’s fire chief, John Donnelly, stated that the conditions are extremely difficult for lifeguards due to cold, strong wind, and ice in the river.
Video Footage
Official Reactions
President Donald Trump offered his condolences, saying “May God bless you.” He later stated on his social truth platform that the accident “should have been avoided” and questioned the control tower’s actions. The Secretary of Internal Security, Kristi Noem, announced that she is deploying all available resources from the United States Coast Guard.