As per reports shared by Cyprian Is Nyakundi on his X page, a tragic incident was witnessed in the skies over Washington, D.C., on the evening of January 29th, 2025, when a mid-air collision occurred between two aircraft.
The crash involved American Eagle Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ-700, and a VH-60 Black Hawk helicopter operated by the US Army.
The collision happened slightly past 6 p.m. (US Time) near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, causing both aircraft to crash into the Potomac River.
Emergency teams rushed to the scene immediately to rescue survivors and recover the wreckage. The airport has since been shut down as authorities investigate the cause of the crash and manage the aftermath.
Reports further revealed that the Bombardier CRJ-700 was carrying 64 people, including passengers and crew. So far, only four individuals have been rescued from the icy waters of the Potomac River. Rescue operations are ongoing, but the conditions are challenging, and hopes of finding more survivors are dwindling.
Families of those on board are anxiously awaiting updates, while the nation mourns the loss of lives in this devastating accident. The VH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, which was also involved in the collision, was carrying three personnel at the time of the crash.
VH-60 Black Hawks are typically used for VIP transport, leading to concerns that a high-ranking official or prominent individual might have been on board.
However, the identities of those on the helicopter have not yet been disclosed, and the Army has not provided further details about the cause of the crash or the status of the personnel involved.
President Trump has been briefed on the incident and is closely monitoring the situation. The White House has expressed its condolences to the families affected by the crash and has pledged full support to the rescue and recovery efforts.
The President has also called for a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the collision and to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This crash has sent disbelief across the country, raising questions about air traffic control procedures and safety measures in the busy airspace around Washington, D.C.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has already begun its investigation, and experts are working to piece together the events leading up to the collision.
The focus remains on supporting the victims, their families, and the brave first responders who are working tirelessly in the face of this heartbreaking disaster.
