Local News
U.S. Figure Skaters and Coaches killed in American Eagle Flight 5342 crash identified
At least 11 young skaters and their coaches were reportedly among the passengers.
A devastating midair collision occurred Wednesday night near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, involving American Eagle Flight 5342 and a military helicopter over the Potomac River.
Among those onboard the flight were numerous skaters, coaches, and their families, many of whom were returning from the National Development Camp following the 2025 U.S.
Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas.
Skaters Confirmed to Be on Board:
- Spencer Lane
- Jinna Han
- Eddie Zhou
- Everly Livingston
- Lydia Livingston
- Franco Aparicio
- Sean Kay
- Angela Yang
- Vadim Naumov
- Evgenia Shishkova
- Inna Volyanskaya
The full passenger list has yet to be confirmed by the airline, but sources close to the figure skating community have verified that several U.S. National Development Team skaters were on the flight.
At least 11 young skaters and their coaches were reportedly among the passengers.
Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines on behalf of American Airlines, was an Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet, carrying 64 passengers and four crew members.
The aircraft was en route from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) to Washington, D.C. (DCA) when it collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter during its approach to Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport.
The crash led to an immediate suspension of all air traffic at the airport.
Emergency responders received the first report of the crash at 8:48 p.m. ET, with the first rescue teams arriving at 8:58 p.m. ET.
Over 300 first responders were deployed to the scene, working to recover victims from the wreckage.
Rescue divers discovered multiple passengers still strapped into their seats underwater.
At least 19 fatalities have been confirmed so far, with ongoing search and rescue efforts continuing through the night.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, confirming the airline is working closely with investigators.
The FBI’s Washington Field Office is assisting in the response but has stated that no indications of criminal or terrorist involvement have been found.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser released a statement offering condolences and urging the public to respect the privacy of affected families.
The skating community is in mourning as the tragedy unfolds. Friends, family members, and colleagues of the skaters and coaches onboard have taken to social media, expressing their heartbreak and praying for survivors.
Journalist Bill Melugin shared that a close friend of his lost his wife in the crash, leaving behind two young children, ages 3 and 1. “Our friend group is with him for support,” he said, noting the agonizing uncertainty due to conflicting survivor reports.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the collision or whether any distress signals were sent prior to impact.
Officials urge the public to refrain from speculation and await confirmed updates as rescue and recovery operations continue.
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.