A tragic mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., has claimed multiple lives after a passenger plane and a military helicopter crashed into the Potomac River. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that there were no survivors. Among the victims were six students of Turkish figure skating coach Alper Uçar and two of his colleagues.
Disaster Over the Potomac River
The collision occurred near Ronald Reagan National Airport. According to an FAA statement, an American Airlines passenger plane and a military helicopter carrying three personnel collided in mid-air. Both aircraft plunged into the Potomac River following the impact.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene immediately after the crash. More than 300 police officers, paramedics, and emergency responders were deployed. However, officials reported that 30 bodies had been recovered from the water and confirmed that there were no survivors.
Alper Uçar: “I Lost My Athletes – A Devastating Loss”
Alper Uçar, a former Olympic ice dancer and current coach, confirmed that he lost six of his students and two fellow coaches in the crash. Expressing his deep sorrow, Uçar stated:
“This is not just my tragedy but a devastating loss for the entire figure skating community. My athletes were returning from a training camp when this disaster struck. These young talents, aged between 12 and 17, were the champions of the future. They were among the most promising skaters in the U.S. Figure Skating Federation. This accident is a loss of an entire decade’s worth of potential for both our nations.”
Investigation Underway
U.S. authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Flight paths, the helicopter’s altitude, and communication records between the two aircraft are being thoroughly examined.
Eyewitnesses reported that a massive explosion occurred upon impact, causing both aircraft to plummet rapidly into the river. In response to the crash, all flights at Ronald Reagan National Airport were suspended, and security measures were heightened.
Outpouring of Condolences
The tragic accident has sent shockwaves across the U.S. and internationally. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended condolences to the American people for the loss of lives.
U.S. President Donald Trump also addressed the tragedy, stating:
“Today, we faced a great tragedy. Our transportation and security teams are diligently investigating the cause of the crash. My deepest condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives.”
In the wake of the disaster, messages of sympathy poured in from both nations, highlighting the solidarity between Turkey and the U.S. during this time of mourning.
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