Remembering the Victims of the DC Plane Crash
Who are the victims of the DC plane crash? Recovery operations are still underway in Washington DC after a tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines plane and a military helicopter on Wednesday night. The aircraft, carrying 64 passengers from Kansas, collided with a helicopter manned by three military personnel.
Among the victims were accomplished figure skaters from the US and Russia, a young pilot, dedicated flight attendants, and a lawyer returning home on her birthday.
Here, we honor the lives lost in this heartbreaking tragedy.
Passengers
Asra Hussain Raza
Indiana native Asra Hussain Raza, 26, had moved to Washington DC after earning her master’s degree in hospital management. She was returning from a work trip when tragedy struck. Her husband, Hamaad Raza, shared her last message with news crews, emphasizing her dedication to improving healthcare.
Professor Kiah Duggins
Howard University confirmed the passing of civil rights lawyer Kiah Duggins, who was preparing to begin teaching at the university’s School of Law. She devoted her career to fighting against unconstitutional policing and unjust bail practices.
Sarah Lee Best
Attorney Sarah Lee Best, 33, was traveling with her husband Daniel Solomon. The couple had been planning to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary in Hawaii.
Elizabeth Keys
Lawyer Elizabeth Keys, also 33, tragically died on her birthday. Her partner, David Seidman, described her as someone who always found joy in everything.
Casey Crafton
Dedicated father Casey Crafton from Salem, Connecticut, was mourned by his community, especially the Salem Little League, where he was a beloved coach.
Michael Stovall
Michael “Mikey” Stovall, known for his joyful spirit, was returning home from an annual hunting trip with friends.
Jesse Pitcher
Jesse Pitcher, 30, had recently started his own business and was excited about the future. His father, Jameson Pitcher, expressed his deep grief.
Pergentino N. Malabed
Colonel Pergentino N. Malabed of the Philippine National Police was traveling to the Philippine embassy in Washington DC.
Passenger Plane Crew
Jonathan J. Campos
The plane’s captain, Jonathan J. Campos, had dreamed of flying since childhood. His aunt described him as someone who wanted to soar like a bird.
Sam Lilley
Pilot Sam Lilley, 28, was engaged and looking forward to starting a family. His father said he pursued his dream of flying with passion.
Ian Epstein
Flight attendant Ian Epstein, 53, was known for his charisma and love for travel. His family said he truly enjoyed meeting new people and exploring new places.
Danasia Elder
Danasia Elder was a vibrant and dedicated flight attendant. Her family described her as full of life and passionate about her job.
Helicopter Crew
Ryan O’Hara
Crew chief Ryan O’Hara, 29, was a devoted husband and father to a one-year-old son. His ROTC program honored his memory.
Andrew Eaves
Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves was confirmed as one of the pilots of the Blackhawk helicopter by his wife, who asked for prayers for all the families affected.
Ice 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.
Jinna Han and Jin Han
Jinna Han, 13, and her mother Jin were beloved in the skating community. Jinna had once spoken about her excitement for the Olympics.
Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov
Russian figure skating coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were cherished members of the skating world.
Olivia Ter
Twelve-year-old Olivia Ter from Maryland was remembered for her incredible talent and sportsmanship.
Cory Haynos, Roger Haynos, and Stephanie Branton Haynos
Cory Haynos, an aspiring Olympian, was traveling with his parents, Roger and Stephanie Branton Haynos.
Alexandr Sasha Kirsanov
Former coach Sasha Kirsanov was remembered by the University of Delaware as a dedicated mentor.
This devastating tragedy has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of many families, friends, and communities. Each individual aboard the ill-fated flight and helicopter had a story, a dream, and a future ahead of them. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.
Follow live updates on the investigation.
