Deadly Collision Near White House: 18 Bodies Recovered from Potomac River

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A tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army helicopter resulted in at least 18 fatalities near the Potomac River, approximately five kilometers from the White House. The incident occurred on January 29, 2025, when American Eagle Flight 5342, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided with a Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, which had three soldiers aboard.

According to the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA), the crash took place around 9 PM local time as the plane was approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport for landing. Eyewitnesses reported a visible fireball in the sky before both aircraft descended into the river. Emergency responders worked amidst challenging conditions, including darkness and freezing temperatures, to recover the victims.

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed deep sorrow over the incident and stated that the airline is cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board's investigation. President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation and praised the first responders' efforts. The FAA has grounded all flights at the airport as investigations continue.

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