Tragic Midair Collision Over Potomac River: Dozens Feared Dead, No Survivors Expected. Pic: NBC.
(EPICSTORIAN) – A tragic midair collision between an American Eagle jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter late Wednesday has left dozens feared dead, with authorities shifting from rescue efforts to a recovery operation.
The crash occurred near Reagan Washington National Airport, sending both aircraft plummeting into the Potomac River. Officials have confirmed that no survivors are expected.
“We are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. At this point, I don’t believe we are going to find any survivors,” said Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly.
American Eagle Jet: Collision Details
The American Eagle Flight 5342, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, was on approach from Wichita, Kansas, when it collided midair with the U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, which was conducting a training mission with three people on board.
Witnesses reported seeing a fireball in the sky before both aircraft plunged into the river.
Authorities have recovered 28 bodies so far—27 from the passenger jet and one from the helicopter. Recovery teams are still searching the water for more victims.
Official Responses
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
“Certainly, I speak for the people of Washington, 700,000 of us, who are extremely sorry for the families who are experiencing loss tonight,” Bowser stated.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation, working alongside the U.S. Army and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to determine the cause of the collision.
Ongoing Recovery Efforts
Emergency response teams, including divers, helicopters, and boats, continue their efforts in the frigid waters of the Potomac. Wreckage from both aircraft has been located, and officials are working to recover and identify additional victims.
Also Read: Florida Man Arrested for Infant’s Tragic Death in Alleged Dispute
Investigators will analyze flight data, air traffic control recordings, and debris patterns to understand how the crash occurred.
