67 Dead in D.C. Mid-Air Collision Near Airport

Following a tragic mid-air collision between a Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, the Army has withheld the name of the female helicopter pilot at her family's request, citing privacy concerns. This decision comes amidst speculation and blame cast by former President Trump, who suggested that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring practices may have contributed to the crash. Rumors falsely implicated Jo Ellis, a transgender Black Hawk pilot, leading her to release a 'proof of life' video to debunk these claims. The collision claimed 67 lives, including all on board the helicopter and the regional jet. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with investigations into the cause still underway, as allegations of an understaffed air traffic control tower have emerged. The names of the other two soldiers aboard the helicopter, Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves and Staff Sgt. Ryan O'Hara, were released by the Army.