TOLEDO, Ohio — Grace Maxwell treasured the time she spent with her grandfather, seeing those moments as “his greatest joy.” A recent trip to Wichita, Kansas, provided the 20-year-old an opportunity to be with him one last time, just before his funeral. Tragically, she was returning to her studies in mechanical engineering at Cedarville University when she became one of 67 victims in a devastating collision involving an American Airlines aircraft and an Army helicopter over Washington, D.C. on Wednesday.
Among the other souls lost was a young lawyer from the D.C. area, who had flown to Wichita for a business meeting and left early enough to catch a flight home just in time for her birthday celebrations. Also among the deceased was a police colonel from the Philippines, who was visiting Kansas to assess potential purchases for his department back home. As students gathered to mourn during a memorial service at Cedarville University’s chapel on Friday, they reflected on the profound loss of lives that seemed intertwined by fate.
Thomas White, the president of Cedarville, addressed the gathering, expressing sorrow at the compounded grief faced by families. He highlighted what it means to lose loved ones in quick succession, noting the heartbreak of losing a child merely a week after losing a parent. Maxwell was remembered for her commitment to service, including her work on a device to assist a disabled child with self-feeding and her contributions at the university’s radio station.
The circumstances that led to the boarding of Flight 5342 were marked by happenstance and brief decisions. Elizabeth Anne Keys, an attorney, had gone to Wichita for work but was apprehensive about returning to D.C. in time to celebrate her 33rd birthday with her partner, David Seidman. Fortunately, her business meeting wrapped up ahead of schedule, affording her the opportunity to catch the flight and enjoy a celebratory drink later that night.
Keys, originally from Cincinnati, met Seidman, a New York native, while they were law students at Georgetown University. Together, they explored the city, with Keys exhibiting a vibrant energy for life that her family fondly recalls. She was a multi-instrumentalist in high school and played on her college’s sailing team. Keys reveled in outdoor activities, such as skiing and hiking, and her adventurous spirit also encouraged her partner to push his own boundaries, particularly with skiing, before they planned to take up golf.
Pergentino Malabed Jr., who was over 8,000 miles away from the Philippines where he served as the head of supply management for its national police force, was in Wichita for the equipment assessment as well. His sudden demise was deeply felt within the Philippine National Police, which honored his commitment and integrity throughout his career.
The victims of the flight, much like many airline passengers, formed a temporary community of unique individuals, many of whom had little more in common than their shared journey. Kiah Duggins, a civil rights attorney and professor at Howard University, was among those returning to D.C. after a trip to Wichita, where she grew up. Known for her advocacy, Duggins had a passion for mentoring youth and instilled guidance in young girls, especially in her own community. Her achievements included attending Harvard Law School and serving as an intern in President Barack Obama’s White House.
Asra Hussain, a 26-year-old health care professional, was returning to D.C. after working at a Wichita hospital. Former professors at Indiana University remembered her impressive work ethic, keen critical thinking skills, and positive personality, referring to her as an emerging talent.
In Charlotte, North Carolina, the friends of Wendy Shaffer mourned the vibrant mother of two young boys, struggling to reconcile the shock of her loss. Friends shared sentiments about Shaffer’s kindness and spirit, noting that her passing has left an irreplaceable gap in their lives.
This collective tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the preciousness of life and the profound impact each individual has on their community.
