WASHINGTON, D.C. – The devastating midair collision between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Eagle regional jet over Washington, D.C., has claimed the lives of multiple individuals, including Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves.

Eaves, a highly skilled pilot serving in the United States Army, was among the crew members aboard the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter designated as PAT25 when it tragically collided with American Eagle Flight 5342. His wife confirmed the heartbreaking news, stating that he was among the military personnel who perished in the catastrophic accident.

Eaves, a Central Academy graduate who grew up in the Brooksville area, dedicated his life to service. He is survived by his wife and children, who are mourning the loss of a beloved husband and father.

The crash, which occurred on Wednesday night at approximately 8:57 p.m. EST, resulted in the deaths of all passengers and crew members aboard both aircraft. The regional jet, operated by PSA Airlines for American Airlines, was on final approach to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when it collided with the military helicopter at an altitude of approximately 400 feet over the Potomac River. The catastrophic impact resulted in a fiery explosion, sending both aircraft plunging into the icy waters below.

Victims Identified: Honoring Those Lost in the Tragedy

In addition to Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves, several other military personnel, pilots, flight attendants, and passengers have been identified among the deceased.

Crew Members of Black Hawk PAT25:

• Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves – Pilot
• Ryan O’Hara – Crew Chief
• Two additional U.S. Army personnel (names pending release)

Crew Members of American Eagle Flight 5342:

• Captain Jonathan Campos, 34 – Pilot
• First Officer Samuel Lilley, 29 – Co-Pilot
• Danasia Elder – Flight Attendant
• Ian Epstein – Flight Attendant

Passengers on American Eagle Flight 5342:

• Spencer Lane – U.S. Figure Skater
• Everly Livingston, 16 & Lydia Livingston, 14 – Sibling Figure Skaters
• Jinna Han – Figure Skater
• Edward Zhou – Figure Skater
• Franco Aparicio – Figure Skater
• Sean Kay – Figure Skater
• Angela Yang – Figure Skater
• Vadim Naumov & Evgenia Shishkova – Former World Champion Figure Skaters and Coaches
• Inna Volyanskaya – Figure Skating Coach

The full list of passengers is still being confirmed as authorities work to notify families.

A Devastating Loss for the Aviation and Skating Communities

The impact of this tragedy is being felt across multiple communities, particularly within the U.S. military and the international figure skating world. Many of the passengers on Flight 5342 were returning from the National Development Camp following the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas.

In a statement released by U.S. Figure Skating, the organization expressed profound sorrow:

“We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. The figure skating world is mourning the loss of incredibly talented athletes, dedicated coaches, and cherished friends. Their legacies will never be forgotten.”

The Army also released a statement acknowledging the loss of highly trained and dedicated servicemen:

“The U.S. Army mourns the loss of brave soldiers who served their country with honor and dedication. Our thoughts are with their families and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Investigation Underway: FAA, NTSB, and Military Probing the Cause of the Crash

Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an extensive investigation into the cause of the crash. According to preliminary reports, air traffic control data indicates that the Black Hawk helicopter was conducting a routine training flight in restricted airspace when it crossed paths with the incoming regional jet.

Authorities are reviewing all communications between air traffic controllers and the flight crews to determine whether miscommunication, mechanical failure, or an unexpected maneuver led to the collision.

Aviation expert and former NTSB investigator Richard Lyle weighed in on the complexity of the investigation:

“This is one of the most catastrophic midair collisions in recent U.S. history. Given the airspace restrictions around Washington, D.C., there will be thorough scrutiny of both military and civilian air traffic control operations. We will also look into flight data recorders, cockpit voice recorders, and radar data to piece together the exact sequence of events.”

Survivor Search Called Off: Recovery Efforts Continue

Search and recovery operations are still underway in the Potomac River, though authorities have confirmed there are no survivors. As of Thursday morning, at least 28 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage. Due to freezing temperatures and strong river currents, the operation has been extremely challenging for first responders, divers, and emergency personnel.

Authorities have officially transitioned from a search-and-rescue mission to a recovery operation, stating that the likelihood of finding any additional survivors is nearly impossible.

Mourning and Tributes Pour In

Tributes have been pouring in for the victims of the crash. Friends, family, and colleagues have taken to social media to honor those lost.

Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves’ former high school, Central Academy, released a heartfelt statement:

“Andrew was an exceptional student, a proud military serviceman, and a devoted family man. His courage and dedication will never be forgotten.”

Meanwhile, Parkview High School’s MCJROTC program, where Crew Chief Ryan O’Hara was once a cadet, posted an emotional tribute:

“Ryan was always someone who stepped up to help others. His loss is deeply felt by everyone who knew him. Our thoughts are with his family.”

The families of the American Eagle crew members also shared their grief. First Officer Samuel Lilley’s father, Timothy Lilley, expressed his devastation in an interview:

“My son was just months away from being promoted to captain. He was engaged and had so much ahead of him. We are heartbroken.”

Looking Ahead: Memorial Services and Continued Investigation

Memorial services for the victims are currently being planned in multiple locations, including Washington, D.C., Brooksville, and communities where the victims resided.

As the nation mourns this devastating tragedy, authorities continue to piece together the final moments leading up to the crash. The FAA and NTSB are expected to release a preliminary report within the next few weeks, followed by a full investigation report in the coming months.

This tragic accident has left an indelible mark on the military, aviation, and figure skating communities, and the memories of those lost will continue to live on in the hearts of their families, colleagues, and loved ones.