Local News
3 Fairfax County Public Schools students and six parents died in mid-air collision
The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) community in Virginia is mourning the loss of three students and six parents who tragically perished in Wednesday’s midair collision near Reagan National Airport, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid confirmed in a statement.
“We are devastated by the tragic news as we learn that members of our FCPS community have lost their lives in the accident last night at Reagan National Airport,” the statement read.
Dr. Reid revealed that two of the six parents who died were either current or former employees of the school division. However, out of respect for the privacy of those affected, school officials are not publicly releasing the names of the victims at this time.
“This loss extends beyond the individuals themselves—siblings, spouses, relatives, friends, and colleagues are now mourning their loved ones,” the statement continued.
The impact of the tragedy has also been felt in Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), which confirmed that multiple victims of the crash were former students.
“This unimaginable loss has deeply affected our community, and with great sorrow, we have learned that multiple victims were former LCPS students,” a statement from the Loudoun school division read. “Many other Loudoun families have also been impacted, and we extend our deepest condolences to all those grieving in the wake of this tragedy.”
Both Fairfax and Loudoun County school divisions have announced that additional counseling and support services will be available to students, faculty, and families affected by the devastating loss.
“Loss of this magnitude can bring a wave of emotions,” LCPS said. “Please know that you are not alone. We are here to support you, and we will navigate this difficult time together.”
The victims were among the 60 passengers and four crew members aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River while approaching Reagan National Airport. Officials have confirmed there were no survivors, and investigations into the cause of the collision are ongoing.
As the Northern Virginia community grapples with the tragic loss, school leaders and local officials continue to rally support for the families affected, underscoring the deep sense of loss and grief felt throughout the region.
Local News
At least two killed, multiple trapped after explosion at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol
BRISTOL, Pa. (Bucks County) — Emergency crews are responding to a major incident at the Silver Lake Nursing Home following a reported gas explosion that caused a partial building collapse.
The incident occurred at approximately 905 Tower Road, where a second alarm and a Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) response were requested as conditions escalated.
First-arriving units reported significant structural damage to the facility, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue operation for residents and staff.
Authorities on scene indicated that approximately 15 patients were initially accounted for outside the building, while multiple others remain unaccounted for.
Rescue teams have reported numerous individuals trapped beneath debris on the second floor, as well as additional victims trapped in the basement area.
At least two fatalities has been reported in the basement, according to early emergency communications.
As the situation developed, a third alarm was transmitted, bringing in substantial mutual aid resources, including out-of-county fire, rescue, and emergency medical units. A medical helicopter has been placed on standby in anticipation of critical patient transport.
Emergency personnel continue to conduct systematic searches of the damaged structure while assessing stability concerns and coordinating patient triage.
The extent of injuries and the total number of victims have not yet been confirmed.
Road closures are in effect in the surrounding area as emergency operations continue. Officials have advised the public to avoid the scene to allow responders unobstructed access.
This remains a rapidly evolving situation.
Authorities are expected to release additional information as more details are confirmed.