ATLANTA — Sam Lilley had a passion for aviation from a young age, inspired to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career as a pilot right after completing college. “It’s rare to find someone who discovers their life’s calling so early, and for Sam, that was flying,” shared Kaitlin Sells, who became friends with Lilley during their time at Georgia Southern University.
Lilley was serving as the first officer on an American Airlines flight carrying 60 passengers and four crew members when a tragic midair collision occurred with an Army helicopter that had three soldiers onboard. This incident transpired on Wednesday night, leading to devastating news from legislators in Georgia that there were no survivors. Recovery teams have been working tirelessly, pulling more than 40 bodies from the frozen waters of the Potomac River, marking this as the deadliest aviation disaster in the U.S. since 2001.
At the time of the incident, Lilley was operating as part of a routine flight from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C. The soldiers flying the Black Hawk helicopter were engaged in their annual night proficiency training, as shared by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who described them as a “fairly experienced crew.”
So far, details about the members of both flight crews have emerged:
**Sam Lilley**
Timothy Lilley, Sam’s father, was in Washington when the tragic news broke and spoke with WAGA-TV in Atlanta. “This is undoubtedly the worst day of my life,” he expressed, recalling his own extensive experience as a pilot, including 20 years as a U.S. Army helicopter pilot on similar missions out of the Pentagon. “When Sam became a pilot, I felt immense pride, but now there’s a pain in my heart that’s indescribable,” he wrote on social media. Samuel was flourishing both in his career and personal life and was engaged to be married later this year.
Sam graduated in 2018 with a marketing degree after completing his high school education at Richmond Hill High School, situated just south of Savannah, Georgia. During his high school years, he actively contributed to his community, once raising funds to create a water well in a Zambian village, as documented in a local news story from 2011. Kaitlin Sells emphasized that Lilley was exceptionally equipped for the role of a pilot, stating, “He genuinely cared and was incredibly passionate,” also noting his commitment to taking care of those who trusted him.
Outside of work, Lilley was known for his joyous spirit, often the first to join in on dances at social gatherings. “I had never seen him in a negative mood,” Sells recalled. “If someone was having a rough time, he would do everything he could to lift their spirits.”
**Jonathan Campos**
The flight’s captain, Jonathan Campos, was 34 years old. His aunt, Beverly Lane, mentioned that Campos had dreamt of being a pilot since he was just three years old. “He longed for the freedom of flying, wanting to soar like a bird,” she said, recalling a conversation they had shortly before the flight where he expressed excitement for a forthcoming family cruise in the Caribbean. Campos received his Aeronautical Science degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2015.
**Danasia Elder**
Danasia Elder was among the flight attendants on board the commercial flight. Her brother-in-law, Brandon Payne, described her as “full of life,” known for her strong faith, dedication to her children, and passion for travel. Married with two children, she aspired to be a flight attendant. “She would always encourage others to pursue their dreams,” Payne noted, expressing pride in her relentless pursuit of happiness and ambition.
**Ian Epstein**
Flight attendant Ian Epstein, also remembered fondly, was known for his lively nature. His sister, Robbie Bloom, shared her thoughts, stating, “He thrived as a flight attendant because he loved to travel and connect with others, but his greatest love was always his family.” Amid the overwhelming flow of affection from passengers he had interacted with, Bloom shared their request for privacy as they grieved their loss.
**Ryan O’Hara**
One of the soldiers aboard the Black Hawk, Ryan O’Hara, was recognized for his commitment and integrity by his colleague, Josh Muehlendorf, a senior instructor pilot in the U.S. Army. They worked together on multiple flights and had a solid professional rapport built on mutual respect.
**Andrew Eaves**
In remembrance, Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves spoke about Andrew Eaves, also a soldier on the helicopter, hailing from Brooksville, Mississippi. Eaves’s wife, Carrie, confirmed his presence on the helicopter via a social media post, asking for prayers for their family and others affected by the tragedy, while advocating for kindness and support during their time of mourning.
This catastrophic event has left a profound impact on many, and as investigations continue, communities are coming together to support the families of those lost.
