**Family, friends, and community members are mourning the loss of accomplished individuals, including pilots, flight attendants, and young athletes.**
**Victims of the Tragic DC Plane Crash Identified**
**Victims of the Tragic DC Plane Crash Identified**
**The collision involved an American Airlines flight and a military helicopter, resulting in multiple fatalities.**
Recovery efforts continue at the site of a devastating plane crash in Washington, DC, following the collision of an American Airlines flight from Kansas and a military helicopter on Wednesday night. Tragically, 67 lives were lost in this incident, which claimed both passengers and crew members aboard the aircraft and the helicopter. Among the deceased are notable figure skaters from the US and Russia, along with a promising pilot, dedicated flight attendants, and a lawyer who was celebrating her birthday.
The airline's flight crew included Jonathan J. Campos, who had aspired to be a pilot since childhood. According to his aunt, he strived for freedom in the sky. The 34-year-old captain was a seasoned aviator, holding an eight-year tenure with PSA Airlines.
Another victim, pilot Sam Lilley, 28, had recently become engaged and was known for his zeal for life and adventure. His family described him as remarkable, kind, and full of aspirations for the future.
Flight attendant Ian Epstein, 53, equally loved his job for the interactions it offered. His family recalled him as a vibrant person with a deep affection for family and travel. Danasia Elder, another flight attendant, was remembered as a cherished wife and mother, exemplifying the pursuit of dreams.
The helicopter's crew also included Ryan O'Hara, the 29-year-old crew chief, who is survived by his wife and young son. Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves was also confirmed among the deceased, prompting heartfelt tributes from his family and local officials.
Among the passengers were young ice skaters and their parents returning from training camps. Sixteen-year-old Spencer Lane and his mother Christine, along with 13-year-old Jinna Han and her mother Jin, were tragically lost. The skating community is mourning the loss of coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov from Russia, who positively impacted countless young athletes.
Olivia Ter, 12, was another aspiring skater who had made a mark in her community. The Haynos family, including son Cory, were also returning from competition and were experienced skaters expected to shine in future Olympics.
Other casualties include Asra Hussain Raza, a 26-year-old hospital management graduate, Michael Stovall, who was known for his joyful spirit, and newlywed Jesse Pitcher. Filipino Colonel Pergentino N. Malabed was also on board as part of an official mission, and tributes have been pouring in for Casey Crafton, a dedicated father and community member.
Two attorneys, Sarah Lee Best and Elizabeth Keys, both 33, were among the victims, remembered by colleagues as treasured individuals. Howard University has confirmed the death of Professor Kiah Duggins, a civil rights lawyer whose work was deeply impactful in advocating for justice.
This incident has left a profound void in families and communities, commemorating the diverse lives that were tragically cut short in this preventable tragedy.
