- Russian skaters in air disaster
- Collision with Black Hawk helicopter
- Ongoing rescue and investigation
On January 29, a tragic midair collision occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, involving an American Airlines passenger plane and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter. The crash claimed the lives of many, with 19 bodies recovered from the Potomac River amid challenging rescue conditions. Among the passengers were former world champion Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, as confirmed by the Kremlin and state media. The plane, en route from Wichita, Kansas, carried 60 passengers and four crew members when it collided with the helicopter, which had three soldiers on board.
Collision with Black Hawk helicopter
The devastating crash happened around 9 pm local time, as the American Airlines flight was making its approach to Reagan National Airport. Radio communications revealed that the helicopter crew was aware of the plane's approach before the collision. The accident has led to an outpouring of grief, with US Figure Skating expressing their condolences: "We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims' families closely in our hearts." The organization confirmed that athletes, coaches, and family members were on the flight, returning from the National Development Camp in Wichita.
Ongoing rescue and investigation
Rescue operations continue in the "extremely rough" conditions of the icy Potomac River. Officials have not confirmed the total number of fatalities but have indicated there may be no survivors. Reports suggest that Evgenia and Vadim's son, Maxim, who competed at the US Figure Skating Championships, might also have been on board. President Donald Trump has been briefed on the incident and announced a Pentagon investigation, suggesting that "the crash could have been prevented." He questioned why the helicopter did not alter its course, stating, "This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented."