The Washington D.C. Collision Rescue Team has confirmed at least 30 casualties have been recovered so far after the fatal crash in midair.
John Donnelly, Washington Fire Chief, briefed the press and announced that over 300 first responders are working in extreme conditions, trying their best to find anyone alive.
Background
A passenger plane crashed into Washington’s Potomac River Wednesday evening after slamming into a military helicopter in midair. The plane had 64 passengers on board, while the aircraft had 3.
The collision took place near the Reagan National Airport, with both aircraft plummeting into the Potomac River. According to US media, several bodies were recovered from the murky, almost freezing water.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the collision’s causes. Although the cause of the tragic crash is still unknown, initial reports point to a potential misunderstanding between the two aircraft and air traffic control.
It is anticipated that “black boxes,” or flight data recorders and cockpit voice recorders, will yield vital information about the last seconds before impact. As the NTSB thoroughly examines the incident, they have asked the public to refrain from speculating.
What Happens Next?
Rescue efforts will continue throughout the night as authorities race against time to locate survivors of the Washington D.C. collision.
However, the team has explained that as the hours go by, the chances of finding survivors are getting slim. The river is at freezing temperatures with the Reagan National Airport at 45 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
Meanwhile, families of the victims are being contacted, and grief counselling services are being made available.
More Details Later….
