On what began as an ordinary winter evening, an American Airlines flight preparing to land at Reagan National Airport collided with a U.S. military helicopter over the Potomac River, killing all 67 people on board.
Among the victims was flight attendant Danasia Elder, 34, of Charlotte, remembered as a beacon of warmth by family and friends. She leaves behind her husband and two young children, Kayden and Dallas. Her colleague, Ian Epstein, 52, was also killed, along with pilots Captain Jonathan Campos, 34, and First Officer Samuel Lilley, 28 — both praised for their professionalism and dedication.
The crash, which occurred just after 8:45 p.m. under clear skies, has stunned the nation. Investigators say both aircraft were on approved flight paths in one of the busiest airspaces in the U.S. The NTSB, FAA, and Department of Defense are working together to determine how such a rare tragedy could happen.
Memorials are being planned in Charlotte, Wichita, and Washington, D.C., as families and colleagues honor the victims’ legacy of service. Officials vow the investigation will lead to stronger safety measures to prevent future collisions.
