Fatalities Confirmed as Search Efforts Continue
Authorities have not yet provided an exact number of casualties, but reports indicate multiple fatalities. Local media sources stated that at least 18 bodies had been recovered from the crash site as of Thursday morning.
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser addressed reporters at a press conference, emphasizing that the primary focus remains on locating survivors. “Both aircraft are in the water. The focus now is rescuing people,” she said, declining to confirm how many victims had been recovered.
Collision Occurred in Highly Restricted Airspace
The mid-air crash happened in one of the most tightly controlled airspaces in the world, just three miles south of the White House and the U.S. Capitol. According to preliminary air traffic data, the CRJ-700 was flying at an altitude of approximately 400 feet and a speed of 140 mph when it suddenly lost altitude over the Potomac River.
Moments before the collision, air traffic controllers had instructed the arriving jet to land on Runway 33. Seconds before impact, a controller radioed the military helicopter, instructing it to "pass behind the CRJ.” However, the two aircraft collided shortly thereafter.
Emergency Response and Airport Disruptions
Following the accident, all takeoffs and landings at Reagan National Airport were immediately suspended. The Washington Metropolitan Airports Authority confirmed that emergency personnel were responding to the crash, with dive teams and helicopters conducting extensive search operations along the river.
White House and Congressional Reactions
President Donald Trump issued a statement late Wednesday, saying he had been fully briefed on the “terrible accident.” He expressed condolences for the victims, adding, “May God bless their souls. Thank you to the first responders working tirelessly at the scene.”
Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas, whose state was the departure point for Flight 5342, called the tragedy “unbearable sorrow” and extended prayers to the victims and their families.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and FAA have launched a formal investigation into the cause of the collision. Investigators will examine radio communications, flight data, and eyewitness accounts to determine what led to the accident.
As search and recovery efforts continue, officials have urged the public to avoid speculation and await official updates. More details are expected in the coming hours.