Local News
U.S. Figure Skaters and Coaches Among Passengers on Tragic Flight 5342 crashes into Potomac River
At least 11 young skaters from the National Development Camp (NDC), along with their coaches and officials, were aboard the ill-fated flight from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington, D.C. (DCA).
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Multiple sources close to the situation have confirmed that members of the U.S. Figure Skating National Development Team were among the passengers on PSA Airlines-operated American Eagle Flight 5342, which crashed into the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night.
They were returning from the National Development Camp following the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas.
While American Airlines has yet to release an official passenger manifest, reports indicate that at least 11 young skaters from the National Development Camp (NDC), along with their coaches and officials, were aboard the ill-fated flight from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington, D.C. (DCA).
U.S. Figure Skaters and Coaches killed in American Eagle Flight 5342 crash identified
The team had been traveling for a scheduled training session and competition.
The flight, operated by PSA Airlines, was an Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet, identifiable by its registration number CRJ-700.
It was carrying 64 passengers, including families, business travelers, and individuals visiting the nation’s capital, along with a dedicated crew of four members.
According to FAA officials, the aircraft collided midair with a military helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River around 8:48 p.m. ET.
First responders arrived at the scene within 10 minutes, launching a massive search and rescue operation that involved over 300 emergency personnel.
Newly surfaced photos show the wreckage submerged in the river, as divers and rescue teams continue efforts to locate survivors.
Authorities have now confirmed 19 fatalities, though the number may rise as recovery efforts continue.
Loved ones of those on board remain in agonizing uncertainty, as conflicting reports of survivors have made official confirmation difficult.
Journalist Bill Melugin shared that a close friend’s wife was aboard the flight:
“She was a sweet girl whom I knew from my time working in North Carolina. They have two children, ages 3 and 1. Our friend group is with him for support, but the lack of information on survivors is excruciating.”
As authorities work to positively identify passengers and notify next of kin, families and friends continue to hold out hope while awaiting official updates.
The FAA and NTSB are leading the federal investigation, with assistance from D.C. Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department, and multiple emergency response agencies.
In a statement, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed the company’s grief and commitment to transparency:
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. We are actively cooperating with authorities to determine the cause of the accident and will continue to support the victims’ families during this difficult time.”
At this time, Reagan National Airport remains closed, with a full ground stop in effect until at least 5 a.m.
A press conference held late Wednesday night provided few new details, as officials emphasized that rescue operations remain the top priority.
Further updates will be provided as investigators continue to assess the crash site and determine the full scope of this devastating tragedy.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.