An American Airlines flight collided with a Blackhawk helicopter in Washington D.C. while landing near Ronald Reagan National Airport. There are no expected survivors. On board were several U.S. and Russian figure skaters.
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That included Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov. The pair won a World Championship and also competed twice at the Winter Olympics.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed they were on the American Airlines flight.
"Unfortunately, we see that this sad information is being confirmed. There were other fellow citizens there. Bad news today from Washington. We are sorry and send condolences to the families and friends who lost those of our fellow citizens who died in the plane crash," he said.
The International Skating Union said it was "deeply shocked" by the American Airlines plane crash. Many were flying back after the U.S. Figure Skating Championships just days prior. Sadly, several athletes were on the flight.
"U.S. Figure Skating can confirm that several members of our skating community were sadly aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter yesterday evening in Washington, D.C." U.S. Figure Skating said in a statement. "These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas."
"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims' families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available."
Officials Mourn American Airlines Crash
Following the American Airlines crash, Washington, D.C. Mayor Murial Bowse shared a tribute to the deceased.
"Tonight, as our first responders continue their efforts, we are sending our love and prayers to the families, loved ones, and communities who are experiencing loss during this terrible tragedy," she wrote on X.
Meanwhile, several other officials also mourned the American Airlines flight.
House Speaker Mike Johnson wrote, "I'm deeply saddened to learn about the horrific tragedy at Reagan National Airport. Please join me in praying for everyone involved as well as our first responders."
"As we learn more information, please join me in praying for everyone involved in tonight's crash at DCA," Rep. Michael Cloud also wrote.
"I'm praying for all those affected by the devastating plane crash in DC tonight. My heart goes out to the families of those onboard. As we await more information, please join me in praying for the first responders on the scene as they conduct search and rescue operations," Rep. Steve Womack also shared a tribute.
