Remembering the Victims of the DC Plane Crash

Who are the victims of the DC plane crash? Recovery operations are still underway in Washington DC after a tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines plane and a military helicopter on Wednesday night. The aircraft, carrying 64 passengers from Kansas, collided with a helicopter manned by three military personnel.

Among the victims were accomplished figure skaters from the US and Russia, a young pilot, dedicated flight attendants, and a lawyer returning home on her birthday.

Here, we honor the lives lost in this heartbreaking tragedy.

Passengers

Asra Hussain Raza

Indiana native Asra Hussain Raza, 26, had moved to Washington DC after earning her master’s degree in hospital management. She was returning from a work trip when tragedy struck. Her husband, Hamaad Raza, shared her last message with news crews, emphasizing her dedication to improving healthcare.

Professor Kiah Duggins

Howard University confirmed the passing of civil rights lawyer Kiah Duggins, who was preparing to begin teaching at the university’s School of Law. She devoted her career to fighting against unconstitutional policing and unjust bail practices.

Sarah Lee Best

Attorney Sarah Lee Best, 33, was traveling with her husband Daniel Solomon. The couple had been planning to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary in Hawaii.

Elizabeth Keys

Lawyer Elizabeth Keys, also 33, tragically died on her birthday. Her partner, David Seidman, described her as someone who always found joy in everything.

Casey Crafton

Dedicated father Casey Crafton from Salem, Connecticut, was mourned by his community, especially the Salem Little League, where he was a beloved coach.

Michael Stovall

Michael “Mikey” Stovall, known for his joyful spirit, was returning home from an annual hunting trip with friends.

Jesse Pitcher

Jesse Pitcher, 30, had recently started his own business and was excited about the future. His father, Jameson Pitcher, expressed his deep grief.

Pergentino N. Malabed

Colonel Pergentino N. Malabed of the Philippine National Police was traveling to the Philippine embassy in Washington DC.

Passenger Plane Crew

Jonathan J. Campos

The plane’s captain, Jonathan J. Campos, had dreamed of flying since childhood. His aunt described him as someone who wanted to soar like a bird.

Sam Lilley

Pilot Sam Lilley, 28, was engaged and looking forward to starting a family. His father said he pursued his dream of flying with passion.

Ian Epstein

Flight attendant Ian Epstein, 53, was known for his charisma and love for travel. His family said he truly enjoyed meeting new people and exploring new places.

Danasia Elder

Danasia Elder was a vibrant and dedicated flight attendant. Her family described her as full of life and passionate about her job.

Helicopter Crew

Ryan O’Hara

Crew chief Ryan O’Hara, 29, was a devoted husband and father to a one-year-old son. His ROTC program honored his memory.

Andrew Eaves

Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves was confirmed as one of the pilots of the Blackhawk helicopter by his wife, who asked for prayers for all the families affected.

Ice Skaters

Spencer Lane and Christine Lane

Spencer Lane, 16, and his mother Christine Lane, 49, were among 14 athletes and coaches returning from a skating camp.

Jinna Han and Jin Han

Jinna Han, 13, and her mother Jin were beloved in the skating community. Jinna had once spoken about her excitement for the Olympics.

Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov

Russian figure skating coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were cherished members of the skating world.

Olivia Ter

Twelve-year-old Olivia Ter from Maryland was remembered for her incredible talent and sportsmanship.

Cory Haynos, Roger Haynos, and Stephanie Branton Haynos

Cory Haynos, an aspiring Olympian, was traveling with his parents, Roger and Stephanie Branton Haynos.

Alexandr Sasha Kirsanov

Former coach Sasha Kirsanov was remembered by the University of Delaware as a dedicated mentor.

This devastating tragedy has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of many families, friends, and communities. Each individual aboard the ill-fated flight and helicopter had a story, a dream, and a future ahead of them. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.

Follow live updates on the investigation.