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Updated 10m ago
Secretary Duffy Describes Flight Paths as Routine
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the flight paths of both aircraft involved in the incident were customary for the Washington, D.C., area, citing the common occurrence of crowded airspace in the region.
Duffy mentioned that before the collision, the flight paths of the military and American aircraft were standard for the D.C. airspace. He refrained from providing extensive details due to the ongoing investigation but highlighted that military helicopters often fly over the river, emphasizing the normalcy of the events leading up to the crash.
According to Duffy, such incidents happen regularly, but something went wrong in this case. He also mentioned that investigators have initial clues regarding the cause of the accident.
20m ago
Chief Donnelly Discusses Impact of High Winds on Crash
District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief John Donnelly reported that around 300 responders were deployed to the crash site, facing challenging weather conditions including frigid temperatures and strong winds. He mentioned that the recovery operation would require significant effort due to the scattered nature of the crash area.
Donnelly described the crash area as spread out, with debris possibly moving downstream due to the high winds overnight.
40m ago
Fire Chief Confirms Tragic Outcome
District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief John Donnelly sadly conveyed that 27 individuals from the plane and one from the helicopter were recovered as casualties. The grim news included the total count of 67 passengers aboard both aircraft, with no survivors expected.
Donnelly mentioned the transition from a rescue to a recovery operation, signifying the devastating impact of the incident.
7:28 AM
Army Collaborates with NTSB on Investigation
An Army spokesperson revealed that the helicopter involved in the collision was on a training mission. They confirmed the joint investigation by the FAA, NTSB, and the United States Army, with the NTSB leading the inquiry.
The spokesperson assured cooperation with local authorities and pledged to share additional details as they become available.
6:57 AM
Recovery Efforts Continue Amidst Tragic Scene
A law enforcement source informed CBS News that over 30 bodies had been retrieved by early morning. Investigators are focusing on the circumstances leading to the helicopter’s presence at that location and altitude.
The search operation persisted throughout the night and into the following day, uncovering devastating wreckage in the Potomac River.