No Survivors Found in Deadly Mid-Air Collision Near D.C.

All 64 people aboard an American Airlines jet that collided with a U.S. Army helicopter near Washington, D.C., are presumed dead, making this one of the worst U.S. aviation disasters in decades. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with at least 28 bodies retrieved from the icy Potomac River as officials search for more victims.

The crash occurred as the jet from Wichita, Kansas, was making a routine landing at Reagan National Airport. Flight data reveals that air traffic controllers instructed the helicopter to pass behind the plane moments before the collision. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board and the Department of Defense are examining whether altitude or miscommunication played a role.

President Trump addressed the tragedy, offering condolences but also casting blame without evidence on air traffic controllers and federal policies. His remarks drew criticism from Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and others, who accused him of politicizing the incident.

The crash claimed the lives of several figure skaters, coaches, and their families returning from a national championship event, leaving the skating community devastated. Authorities are expected to release a full list of victims as investigations continue.

Source: AP News