Howard University
Recovery operations are ongoing in Washington, D.C., after a devastating collision between an American Airlines passenger aircraft from Kansas and a military helicopter, manned by three personnel, occurred on Wednesday night. The crash resulted in the loss of 64 lives, including notable figure skaters from the United States and Russia, a young pilot, flight attendants, and a lawyer celebrating her birthday.
Plane Passengers
Asra Hussain Raza
Indiana resident Asra Hussain Raza, 26, had recently moved to the Washington, D.C., area to pursue a master’s degree in hospital management.
Her husband, Hamaad Raza, shared his wife’s last text message, noting she was working on a project to improve a struggling hospital.
“She was doing what she loved,” emphasized Hamaad. “Even from the air, she was helping make a difference.”
Professor Kiah Duggins
Professor Kiah Duggins, the president of Howard University confirmed, was on board the flight. She was set to begin teaching at the university’s School of Law in autumn.
Duggins dedicated her career to fighting unconstitutional policing and unjust bail practices in Tennessee, Texas, and Washington, D.C.
Sarah Lee Best
Two Washington, D.C., lawyers were onboard the fateful flight, including Sarah Lee Best, 33. Her husband, Daniel Solomon, described her as kind and hardworking.
The couple had planned a trip to Hawaii for their 10th wedding anniversary in May.
Elizabeth Keys
Lawyer Elizabeth Keys, 33, was also among the victims. Her partner, David Seidman, explained that she had a zest for life.
Elizabeth died on her birthday, a tragic irony in her short yet impactful career.
Casey Crafton
Tributes have flooded in for Casey Crafton of Salem, Connecticut. Governor Ned Lamont hailed him as a “dedicated father, husband, and community member.”
Michael Stovall
Mother Christina Stovall expressed deep sorrow for her son, known for his positive outlook and friendliness. Stovall was returning from a hunting trip with friends.
“Mikey did not have one enemy,” his mother recalled, describing him as the life of the party.
Jesse Pitcher
Jesse Pitcher, 30, another passenger returning from the hunting trip, had recently married and launched his own business. His father shared that he had every intention of building a happy life.
“He was just getting started with life,” Jameson Pitcher stated, highlighting his son’s optimism.
Pergentino N. Malabed
The Philippine National Police confirmed that Colonel Pergentino N. Malabed, director of its Supply Management Division, was onboard the flight.
He had traveled to the U.S. with two officers to test police personnel vests and was en route to the Philippine embassy.
Plane Crew
Jonathan J. Campos
Jesse Campos, raised in Brooklyn, New York, was set on flying since he was three. His aunt, Beverly Lane, reflected on his childhood dream.
“He wanted to be free, to soar like a bird,” she said, describing his unwavering passion for aviation.
Sam Lilley
Sam Lilley, 28, a recently engaged pilot with a passion for aviation and adventurism, was mourned by his father and sister.
Tim Lilley emphasized his son’s vigor, stating, “Sam’s right with Jesus, and I know where he’s going.”
Tiffany Gibson highlighted her brother’s caring nature, saying, “He loved people, adventure, and traveling.”
