Chaos erupted in Washington, D.C., late Wednesday night. An American Airlines jet and a military helicopter collided mid-air near Reagan National Airport. The impact split the plane in half, sending wreckage plunging into the freezing Potomac River.
Deadly collision shocks nation
Rescue teams rushed to the scene. Divers braved the brutal 35-degree waters, searching for survivors. So far, at least 18 bodies have been recovered. Officials fear the death toll could rise.
The doomed flight, American Airlines Flight 5342, was a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700. It carried 60 passengers and four crew members. The plane was on its final approach to Runway 33, arriving from Wichita, Kansas.
Tragedy struck just before 9 p.m. A Black Hawk helicopter, carrying three soldiers, crossed paths with the jet. The violent mid-air crash sent both aircraft tumbling into the dark, icy river.
First responders face nightmare conditions
More than 300 first responders swarmed the crash site. Firefighters, divers, and Coast Guard units battled freezing waters and pitch-black darkness. Helicopters circled above, scanning for any sign of life.
Authorities have not confirmed any survivors. “Our concern is for the passengers and crew,” American Airlines stated. The company is working closely with officials in the ongoing rescue operation.
Search efforts continue
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating. Details about the cause of the collision remain unclear.
Families of those on board wait in agony for news. As rescue teams push forward, the nation watches, hoping for a miracle.
