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
Sevierville Homeowner Shaelyn Baggett Finds Human Teeth Emerging From Yard, Prompting Multi-Agency Investigation
SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — A Sevierville resident has made a disturbing and highly unusual discovery on her own property, prompting an active investigation by multiple authorities after human teeth were found emerging from the ground.
Homeowner Shaelyn Baggett said the initial discovery occurred earlier this week when she noticed what appeared to be teeth visible in her yard.
She later found an additional tooth, bringing the total number recovered to eight.
Law enforcement has since become involved, and officials have confirmed that the remains are human.
According to Baggett, the discovery was made when she looked down and saw what appeared to be teeth protruding from the soil.
“By uncovered, I mean I looked down and there they were — literally sprouting from the earth,” she said.
The finding prompted an immediate response from authorities.
The Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, along with forensic investigators, the medical examiner, a dental professional, and anthropologists, are now working collaboratively to determine the origin and age of the teeth.
Officials have stated that while the teeth are confirmed to be human, they appear to be old, though investigators have not yet determined their exact age or how long they may have been buried.
No conclusions have been drawn regarding whether the discovery is connected to criminal activity, historical remains, or another explanation.
Baggett said she has been informed that excavation work is expected, which may include digging into portions of her yard and driveway as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are continuing to examine the surrounding area for additional remains or evidence that could clarify how the teeth came to be located on the property.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not released further details at this time.
Baggett has said she plans to continue sharing updates publicly as more information becomes available.