WASHINGTON, D.C. — As search and rescue teams work tirelessly in the aftermath of the catastrophic crash of American Eagle Flight 5342, one husband is holding onto hope, praying for his wife’s survival. Hamaad Raza, whose wife was aboard the ill-fated flight scheduled to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, shared an emotional plea:

“I’m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the Potomac River right now.”

The devastating accident unfolded late Wednesday night as American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, attempted its final descent into Washington, D.C. The aircraft, an Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet carrying 64 passengers and four crew members, crashed into the frigid waters of the Potomac River just miles from the airport.

First Responders Confirm Rising Death Toll

Authorities have confirmed that at least 19 individuals have been recovered from the wreckage, but the total number of casualties remains uncertain as divers continue their search in the murky depths. D.C. Fire and EMS, alongside the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Coast Guard, have been working relentlessly to locate survivors and recover the remains of victims trapped within the partially submerged fuselage.

“We are dealing with an incredibly difficult situation,” said D.C. Fire Chief John Donnelly during a press briefing. “We know there are still individuals inside the aircraft. Our priority remains rescuing any survivors, but with each passing hour, the conditions grow more challenging.”

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have dispatched investigative teams to the crash site. The FBI’s Washington Field Office is also assisting, though officials have emphasized that there is currently no indication of foul play or terrorist involvement.

Hamaad Raza’s Emotional Wait for Answers

As rescuers continue their efforts, the families of those aboard Flight 5342 are enduring an agonizing wait for news.

Hamaad Raza, whose wife, Aisha Raza, was returning home from a business trip, described the overwhelming anguish of not knowing her fate.

“She texted me when they were about 30 minutes from landing. She told me she was exhausted and just wanted to get home and see our kids. That was the last thing I heard from her.”

Since hearing about the crash, Hamaad has been stationed at Reagan National Airport, clinging to hope as he awaits official updates.

“I don’t know what to do. I don’t know what to think. Every time I see a rescue worker come out of the water, I hold my breath, hoping they’ll tell me she’s alive,” he said, his voice trembling.

Witnesses Describe Harrowing Moments Before Crash

Several eyewitnesses have come forward with chilling accounts of the final moments before Flight 5342 went down.

Mark Caldwell, a Georgetown resident who was jogging along the Potomac River at the time of the incident, described hearing an unusual noise in the sky.

“I looked up and saw the plane descending lower than usual. It didn’t seem right. Then, suddenly, there was a loud explosion, and the plane tilted sideways before vanishing into the river.”

Another witness, Marie Sullivan, who was driving on the George Washington Parkway, said she saw the aircraft struggling in the air.

“It was obvious something was wrong. The nose was dipping, and it looked like the pilot was trying to regain control. Then it just slammed into the water.”

Rescue and Recovery Efforts Face Challenges

The crash occurred at approximately 8:53 p.m., and within minutes, emergency crews were on the scene. However, recovery efforts have been significantly hindered by the freezing temperatures and the treacherous current of the Potomac River.

Coast Guard Captain Paul Schmidt outlined the difficulties facing divers:

“The water temperature is dangerously cold—around 37 degrees Fahrenheit. That means hypothermia can set in within minutes. The debris field is extensive, making it challenging to navigate.”

Despite these obstacles, rescue teams have managed to pull several survivors from the wreckage. Those found alive have been transported to nearby hospitals, where they are being treated for hypothermia and other injuries.

The Investigation: What Went Wrong?

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy confirmed that investigators are analyzing flight data and cockpit recordings to determine the cause of the crash.

Preliminary radar tracking data suggests that the aircraft experienced an unexpected loss of altitude during its final approach. Investigators are considering multiple possibilities, including mechanical failure, pilot error, and adverse weather conditions.

“We will be examining all available data, including maintenance records, weather reports, and air traffic control communications,” Homendy said.

Experts have pointed out that the Potomac River has been the site of previous aviation disasters, most notably the crash of Air Florida Flight 90 in 1982, which claimed 78 lives under eerily similar conditions.

American Airlines and PSA Airlines Respond

In a statement issued Thursday morning, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy:

“We are devastated by the loss of life in this tragic accident. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those affected. We are working closely with federal investigators to determine what happened and to ensure that every resource is dedicated to supporting those impacted.”

PSA Airlines, which operated Flight 5342 under American Eagle branding, also released a statement acknowledging the incident and pledging full cooperation with authorities.

Airport Operations Disrupted

Following the crash, Reagan National Airport temporarily suspended all incoming and outgoing flights. The FAA has issued a ground stop that remains in effect, with authorities prioritizing rescue and investigation efforts.

Travelers scheduled to fly in and out of DCA have been advised to check with their airlines for alternative arrangements.

The Community Mourns

As the nation watches this tragedy unfold, communities across the country are rallying in support of the victims and their families.

Vigils have been organized in several cities, including Washington, D.C., and Wichita, Kansas, where the flight originated. In a heartwarming display of solidarity, a group of volunteers has been setting up at the airport, offering comfort to grieving families.

Local faith leaders have called for prayers, and government officials, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, have expressed condolences to those affected.

The Long Road Ahead

With the search still ongoing, families like Hamaad Raza’s are left clinging to hope.

“I just need to know,” he said, his voice breaking. “I just need to hear her voice again.”

Authorities continue working around the clock to provide answers. More information will be made available as the investigation unfolds and recovery efforts progress.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more details emerge.