Recovery operations are ongoing in Washington, DC, after an American Airlines plane carrying 64 people collided with a military helicopter on Wednesday night. The tragic incident claimed the lives of passengers and crew, including top figure skaters, pilots, a Philippines police official, and others.
Here are some of the victims identified so far:
Passengers
Asra Hussain Raza
Asra Hussain Raza, 26, from Indiana, was a hospital management professional returning from a work trip. Her husband, Hamaad Raza, described her as someone who “gave a lot but had so much more to give.”
Professor Kiah Duggins
A civil rights lawyer and incoming professor at Howard University, Kiah Duggins was known for her work against unconstitutional policing and unjust bail practices.
Sarah Lee Best
Sarah Lee Best, 33, a lawyer from DC, was described by her husband as kind and hardworking. The couple had planned to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary in Hawaii.
Elizabeth Keys
Elizabeth Keys, 33, also a lawyer, died on her birthday. Her partner remembered her as someone who “always managed to have fun, no matter what she was doing.”
Casey Crafton
A dedicated father and coach from Salem, Connecticut, Casey Crafton was mourned by his community. Governor Ned Lamont called him a “dedicated father, husband, and community member.”
Michael Stovall
Known as “Mikey,” Michael Stovall was remembered by his mother as “the happiest person” who saw the good in everyone. He was returning from an annual hunting trip with friends.
Jesse Pitcher
Jesse Pitcher, 30, from Maryland, had recently started his own business and got married last year. His father said he was “just getting started with life.”
Colonel Pergentino N. Malabed
A high-ranking Philippines police official, Colonel Malabed was in the US to test personnel vests for the Philippine National Police. His body was recovered from the Potomac River.
Passenger Plane Crew
Captain Jonathan J. Campos
Jonathan Campos, 34, had dreamed of being a pilot since he was three. His aunt described him as someone who “wanted to be free and soar like a bird.”
Sam Lilley
Sam Lilley, 28, was engaged and described by his father as being “at the prime of his life.” His sister called him “an amazing person” who loved adventure and people.
Ian Epstein
Ian Epstein, 53, a flight attendant, was known for his ability to make people smile. His family said he “loved being a flight attendant” and was “full of life.”
Danasia Elder
Danasia Elder, a flight attendant from North Carolina, was pursuing her dream job. Her brother-in-law remembered her as “full of life” and a great wife, parent, and friend.
Helicopter Crew
Ryan O’Hara
Ryan O’Hara, 29, was the crew chief of the Black Hawk helicopter. He leaves behind a wife and a one-year-old son.
Andrew Eaves
Andrew Eaves, a Chief Warrant Officer, was confirmed as one of the helicopter pilots. His wife asked for prayers for their family and all those affected by the tragedy.
Figure Skaters
Spencer Lane and Christine Lane
Spencer Lane, 16, and his mother Christine Lane, 49, were among 14 athletes and coaches returning from a skating camp. Spencer was described as a “force of nature” with a passion for skating.
Jinna Han and Jin Han
Jinna Han, 13, and her mother Jin Han were also on the flight. Jinna had expressed excitement about watching the Olympics in a 2022 interview.
Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov
Beloved Russian figure skating coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were confirmed among the victims. Their deaths were mourned by the global skating community.
Olivia Ter
Olivia Ter, 12, from Maryland, was remembered for her talent and sportsmanship. Local officials called her an inspiration to the youth sports community.
Cory Haynos, Roger Haynos, and Stephanie Branton Haynos
Cory Haynos, a promising young skater, was traveling with his parents, Roger and Stephanie. Family members said Cory had a bright future and was expected to represent the US in the Olympics.
Alexandr “Sasha” Kirsanov
A former skating coach, Sasha Kirsanov was mourned by the University of Delaware. His wife said she had “lost everything” in the crash.
Ongoing Recovery and Tributes
Recovery efforts continue as authorities work to identify all victims. Tributes have poured in from families, friends, and communities, highlighting the profound impact of this tragedy.
This devastating incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of all those affected.
