Local News
Watch: Statement from American Airlines CEO Robert Isom on plane crash at Potomac River near Reagan National Airport
WASHINGTON, D.C. — American Airlines CEO Robert Isom has confirmed that American Eagle Flight 5342, which was operating from Wichita, Kansas (ICT), to Washington, D.C. (DCA), was involved in a catastrophic accident upon its approach to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
The flight, operated by PSA Airlines, was utilizing an Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet, with the registration number CRJ-700. The aircraft was carrying 60 passengers, including families, business travelers, and individuals visiting the nation’s capital, as well as a dedicated crew of four members.
American Airlines has assured that all standard safety protocols were in place during the flight. The airline is fully cooperating with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as they work to determine the circumstances leading to the crash.
Authorities have now confirmed that at least 19 individuals have lost their lives as a result of the crash in the Potomac River, near Reagan National Airport. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing as emergency responders continue their efforts to locate survivors and recover victims.
The FAA and NTSB are leading the investigation into the tragic accident, while D.C. Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department, and multiple partner agencies remain actively involved in recovery efforts.
American Airlines has extended its condolences to the victims’ families, stating:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. We are working closely with authorities to provide support and assistance during this difficult time.”
More details will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
Local News
29-Year-Old Alex Rodriguez Found Dead on University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, No Foul Play Suspected
URBANA, Ill. — A 29-year-old Champaign man found dead on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus Monday morning has been identified as Alex C. Rodriguez, according to the Champaign County Coroner’s Office.
The University of Illinois Police Department (UIPD) responded to the area of Green and Wright streets at approximately 6:42 a.m. after receiving a report of an unresponsive person near the Alma Mater statue.
Officers arrived and found Rodriguez on a concrete bench. Emergency medical assistance was requested at the scene.
The Champaign County Coroner’s Office responded, and Rodriguez was pronounced dead at approximately 7:16 a.m., according to Coroner Laurie Brauer.
Authorities said Rodriguez was not affiliated with the University of Illinois.
UIPD provided an update Monday afternoon, saying preliminary observations at the scene revealed no signs of foul play.
Police also said there was no evidence of an ongoing threat to the university campus or surrounding community based on the information available when officers responded.
Because investigators did not identify an active threat, the university did not issue an Illini-Alert emergency notification.
The circumstances surrounding Rodriguez’s death have not been determined.
An autopsy has been scheduled, and the death remains under investigation by the University of Illinois Police Department.
Authorities have not released additional information about the circumstances leading to Rodriguez’s death.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected as investigators receive further information from the autopsy and other evidence.
No foul play has been indicated based on the preliminary investigation.