D.C. Plane Crash: U.S. Figure Skating Organization confirms skaters, coaches aboard flight

There was a horrific collision between a Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines flight near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday. Now, officials have shared that both figure skaters and coaches returning from the U.S. national championships were on the flight.

According to the U.S. Figure Skating organization, there were several members of the figure skating community aboard American Airlines Flight 5342 leaving Wichita, Kansas.

“These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas,” the organization said. “We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available.”

As of now, officials have not announced any information about the number of fatalities due to the crash. However, there were 60 passengers and for crew members on the American Airlines flight. There were three personnel on the Army helicopter, which is said to have been on a training flight.

The crash carrying members of U.S. Figure Skating as well as other passengers crashed into the Potomac River. On Thursday morning, officials confirmed that search and operations in the river are still underway, though it’s unclear if those being pulled from the river are alive.

This story will be updated.

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