In a tragic turn of events last night, an American Airlines regional passenger plane collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan Washington National Airport. Both aircraft plunged into the icy Potomac River, sending shockwaves across the nation. 😢✈️🚁
The airline confirmed that 64 people were on board the plane—60 passengers and four crew members—while the helicopter carried three soldiers. The U.S. Army stated that the helicopter was an Army UH-60 out of Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
Rescue teams have recovered at least 18 bodies so far, as divers braved the freezing waters of the snow-lined Potomac in a massive search and rescue operation. The scene was nothing short of a nightmare, with emergency crews working tirelessly under harsh conditions. 🛟🌉
President Donald Trump addressed the nation, stating he has been \"fully briefed on the terrible accident\" and is \"monitoring the situation.\" Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth echoed these sentiments on social media platform X, assuring that the Pentagon is \"actively monitoring\" and \"poised to assist if needed.\"
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas expressed his distress on X, calling the collision \"nothing short of a nightmare.\" American Airlines' CEO also released a heartfelt video message expressing \"deep sorrow\" over the incident.
As the nation grapples with this devastating event, our thoughts are with the families and friends of those affected. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available. 💔🙏
Reference(s):
Plane carrying over 60 collides with helicopter, crashes in Washington
cgtn.com
