Tragic Collision in Washington Claims 67 Lives: Black Hawk Pilot Identified

Sun 2nd Feb, 2025

In a devastating incident that unfolded on January 30, a collision between a Black Hawk military helicopter and an American Eagle regional jet resulted in the tragic loss of 67 lives. The pilot of the helicopter, Rebecca Lobach, aged 28, has been identified as the individual in control of the aircraft during the catastrophic event.

Lobach, who hailed from Durham, North Carolina, was a highly skilled aviator with a commendable record of 450 accident-free flight hours. She had been serving in the military since July 2019 and was assigned to the 12th Aviation Battalion located at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The incident also claimed the lives of two other soldiers onboard the helicopter, Andrew Eaves, 39, and Ryan Austin O'Hara, 28.

The tragic accident occurred when the Black Hawk collided with the regional jet, which was operating flight number 5342 from Wichita, Kansas. Eyewitness reports describe a harrowing scene as the aircraft ignited in a massive fireball following the collision. Despite the pilot's efforts to regain control, the aircraft plummeted into the cold waters of the Potomac River.

Among the deceased were 60 passengers and four crew members aboard the jet, along with the three soldiers from the helicopter. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to recover the victims' remains from the frigid waters in the aftermath of the crash.

In a statement released by the U.S. Army, Lobach's family expressed their profound grief, calling her a 'bright star in our lives.' Her service and dedication were recognized during her military career, as she received two commendations for her performance.

Prior to this tragic incident, Lobach was also known for her role as an Army social worker at the White House during President Joe Biden's administration. She recently participated in a notable event, accompanying designer Ralph Lauren during a ceremony where he was awarded the Medal of Freedom.

The crash has sent shockwaves through the community, especially with revelations that a near-miss incident occurred just 24 hours prior to the accident, raising serious concerns about aviation safety in the region.

Among the victims of the jet were two young sisters, Everly and Alydia, aged 11 and 14, who were recognized as talented figure skaters. Their parents were also on board, underscoring the widespread impact of this tragedy on numerous families.

As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision continues, the impact of this disaster will be felt for years to come, both in the military community and among the families of those who perished.


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