DC Plane Crash Disaster: Crew Identified in Army Black Hawk Tragedy

Search and rescue efforts are seen around a wreckage site in the Potomac River from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, early Thursday morning on Jan. 30, 2025, in Arlington, 

The crew chief and one pilot of the Army Black Hawk helicopter that collided with an American Airlines passenger jet near Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday have been identified. Authorities confirm there are no survivors from the crash.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves of Mississippi was one of the pilots on the Black Hawk. His wife confirmed his death on social media, writing, "I am sure by now all of you have heard the news of the tragedy that has occurred in DC. My husband was one of the pilots in the Black Hawk. We ask that you pray for our family, friends, and all the other families suffering today. We ask for peace while we grieve."

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves expressed condolences, saying, "Mississippi is mourning the loss of Brooksville native Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves, who was killed in last night’s accident at Reagan National Airport. Elee and I are praying for the victims’ families and the first responders assisting."

The incident involved three soldiers aboard the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk. The instructor pilot, described as "very experienced," had over 1,000 flying hours. The co-pilot, a woman, had logged 500 hours, considered a normal amount for her role. Both pilots were undergoing evaluations during the flight, which followed a familiar route often used by military and government helicopters.

Rec overy efforts began Thursday, with one set of remains from the Black Hawk crew retrieved. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the public, confirming the collision occurred during an annual night proficiency training flight. "It’s a tragedy, a horrible loss of life for those 64 souls on the civilian airliner and, of course, the three soldiers in that Black Hawk. They’re in our prayers, along with their families and communities," Hegseth said in a video statement.

The investigation will focus on whether the Black Hawk was in the correct airspace and at the right altitude at the time of the collision. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp also shared condolences, honoring the victims of this devastating incident.

Further updates are anticipated as authorities continue their investigation.