Members of US Figure Skating Team Involved in Washington Plane Crash
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Synopsis
On January 30, several members of the US figure skating team were tragically involved in a plane crash near Washington. The mid-air collision claimed at least 18 lives, including skaters and coaches. Rescue operations are underway as authorities investigate the cause of this devastating incident.
Key Takeaways
- 18 fatalities confirmed from the crash
- Flight involved was American Airlines Flight 5342
- Collision occurred near Reagan National Airport
- Victims included US figure skaters and coaches
- Search and rescue operations continue
Washington, Jan 30 (NationPress) Several members of the US figure skating team were on board the tragic flight from Wichita to Washington, which crashed over the Potomac River close to Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night, as reported by an athlete.
A catastrophic mid-air collision on Wednesday has resulted in at least 18 fatalities thus far, while rescue teams persist in their search for any survivors. The incident involved American Airlines Flight 5342 and a Black Hawk military helicopter.
Team USA pair skater Luke Wang confirmed the heartbreaking news on X, stating, "Praying for all those on the flight from Wichita to DC. Among the passengers were skaters and coaches. Absolutely heartbreaking."
"As we hold everybody on board in our thoughts, we will continue to wait for official information to be released," he added.
The skaters were affiliated with the National Development Team, a training initiative for elite juvenile figure skaters. Numerous competitors had remained in Kansas to take part in the National Development Camp following the US Figure Skating Championships, which occurred in Wichita from January 20 to January 26.
Some athletes extended their stay until January 28 for the advanced training program.
Team USA ice dancer Ethan Peal also expressed his shock, posting on social media, "I am in shock. Praying for families and my skating community."
According to Russia's state-run TASS news agency, Russian figure skater couple Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were also on board the ill-fated flight.
Their 23-year-old son, Maxim Naumov, a figure skater for Team USA, recently participated in the US Championships in Wichita, where he achieved a podium finish. However, it remains uncertain if he was traveling with his parents on the flight.
The collision transpired around 9 PM local time on Wednesday as the regional passenger jet was preparing to land.
The jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. No survivors have been found as of now.
The US Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, designated as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, collided mid-air with a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter while approaching Runway 33. The National Transportation Safety Board will spearhead the investigation into the crash's cause.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the Pentagon and the Army have initiated an immediate inquiry. Describing the incident as "absolutely tragic," he extended condolences and assured that search and rescue efforts are ongoing.
Emergency response teams, including the Metropolitan Police Department and the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, were quickly dispatched to the crash site. Rescue boats continue to scour the Potomac River for possible survivors.
Reagan National Airport confirmed on X that all takeoffs and landings were suspended while emergency personnel addressed the incident. The terminal remained operational, and authorities promised additional updates.
Officials have urged the public to refrain from entering the area to allow emergency teams to perform their duties. Multiple agencies are collaborating to manage the crisis and provide assistance to those affected. The search is ongoing, with more details expected.
