Local News
Former Miss Kansas Contestant and Harvard-Trained Attorney Kiah Duggins Identified Among Victims of D.C. Mid-Air Collision
Kiah Duggins, a former Miss Kansas contestant, Harvard-trained civil rights attorney, and passionate advocate for justice, has been identified as one of the victims of Wednesday night’s tragic mid-air collision near Reagan National Airport.
Duggins, who was a top 10 finalist in both the 2014 and 2015 Miss Kansas Pageants, had been flying into Washington, D.C., in preparation for a new chapter in her career—teaching as a law professor at Howard University this fall, her former pageant director Larry Strong shared in a heartfelt tribute on Facebook.
Her close friend Kiana Knolland honored Duggins’ memory with a moving tribute, emphasizing the profound impact she had on those around her.
“Kiah Duggins. Say her name because it deserves to live on forever,” Knolland wrote. “Kiah was a Harvard-trained civil rights attorney, a freedom fighter, an abolitionist, a global traveler, and a radiant force of light and joy. Speaking of her in the past tense feels unbearable.”
Knolland recounted Duggins’ unwavering commitment to justice, her boundless intellect, and her compassionate spirit, noting that she carried her brilliance with grace and humility.
“She made you want to be better—smarter, kinder, bolder. Her presence alone challenged you to be your most fearless, compassionate self. She fearlessly confronted systems, institutions, and individuals, always pushing for change,” she wrote.
Their friendship spanned years, beginning in their high school’s gifted program in Wichita, Kansas. From their early academic journeys to shared experiences in Washington, D.C., and even overseas in Taiwan, Knolland described Duggins as an unwavering source of inspiration and strength.
“When she graduated from Harvard, I gifted her a framed quote: ‘The light in me honors the light in you.’ It was the perfect reflection of who she was,” she shared. “I am broken. I am hurting, but I will spend the rest of my life honoring you, sweet sister. Your legacy will live on forever.”
Duggins was 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 recovery efforts continue as authorities investigate the cause of the disaster.
As tributes pour in from friends, colleagues, and loved ones, Duggins is remembered not only for her remarkable accomplishments in law and advocacy but for the light, joy, and passion she brought into every space she entered.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.