IndyCar legend Danica Patrick has led the tributes from the sports world after the tragic mid-air collision between a regional airplane and a Black Hawk helicopter occurred last Wednesday night in Washington DC.
The passenger plane carrying 64 people which crashed into the Potomac River has reportedly been ‘split in half’ from the collision.
Emergency crews and divers from across the nation rushed to Washington DC and are desperately trying to search the frigid waters for survivors.
Flight 5342, which originated in Wichita, Kansas, was landing at Ronald Reagan International Airport in Washington DC when it collided with the Sikorksy H-60 Black Hawk helicopter just before 9pm.
‘I am in DC and just left the @MAHAalliance party and heard about the plane crash here. So unbelievable and so sad. Prayers for those families affected,’ Patrick said.
‘Prayers up for everyone involved in the plane crash at DCA,’ former Washington Commanders quarterback Robert Griffin III said.
IndyCar legend Danica Patrick has led the tributes from the sports world after the tragic crash
Flight 5342, which originated in Wichita, Kansas, was landing when it collided with the chopper
‘Our thoughts are with those on board the American Airlines flight from Wichita to DC tonight, as well as the crew of the helicopter involved in this tragic collision. We extend our deepest support to their families, loved ones, and everyone affected,’ the official account of Wichita State athletics posted.
‘Praying for everyone involved in the D.C. air collision, their families and those partaking in search and rescue,’ ESPN’s Jenna Laine said.
The helicopter was carrying three soldiers at the time, a US Department of Defense official told CNN.
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police Department said it is working with the DC Fire Department and emergency responders to coordinate a ‘search and rescue operation in the Potomac River.’
Fatalities have been reported, and NBC Washington says that at least four people had to be pulled to safety by rescue crews.
The crash prompted officials at the international airport to halt all flights as the rescue efforts continue.
This was the first mainline or passenger airline crash in the United States since Colgan Air Flight 3407 in February 2009.
