Local News
Kansas Biology Teacher Lindsey Fields Identified as Victim in D.C. Mid-Air Collision
Washington, D.C. – Lindsey Fields, a Kansas-based educator and advocate for science education, has been identified as one of the victims of Wednesday’s catastrophic mid-air collision involving American Airlines Flight 5432 over Washington, D.C.
Fields, a dedicated educator and leader in biology education, was serving as president-elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) at the time of her passing.
She was traveling to Washington, D.C. to represent the NABT community and advocate for excellence in life science education, the organization confirmed in a statement.
“This is a tremendous loss. Please keep Lindsey, the other victims, and their families in your hearts. We also ask that you respect the privacy of her loved ones at this time,” the NABT statement read.
Fields was the Biology Department Chair at Butler Community College in Kansas, where she taught biology, anatomy, and physiology.
According to her faculty biography, she was deeply passionate about science education and student engagement.
Outside of the classroom, she loved cooking, reading, hiking, fishing, and spending time with her family and Great Danes.
Sherry LaFave Annee, a past NABT president who worked closely with Fields, described her as a fierce advocate for life science education with an unwavering dedication to her students and colleagues.
“Lindsey was on her way to Washington, D.C., to advocate for excellence in life science education. She died caring for the science education of her students and all of those in the United States. I and many others in our NABT community are grief-stricken,” Annee said.
In a heartfelt tribute, Annee urged others to honor Fields’ legacy by supporting quality science education and leadership.
“Thank you, Lindsey, for your impactful work. Your legacy is boundless, and you will continue to inspire so many of us.”
The tragic loss of Fields has left a profound impact on the education community, and she will be remembered for her dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of science education.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.