County officials are extending condolences and remain committed to continued support of operations in the wake of the tragic collision between American Eagle Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport last night, Jan. 29. The effects of the tragedy have been felt throughout the region, including within the ice-skating community.
Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay
"Throughout the day, we have learned more about the victims of last night’s tragic accident at Reagan National Airport, including some members of our Fairfax County Public Schools community. As we continue to receive updates, our hearts are with their families, friends, and colleagues as they endure this unimaginable grief.
In the wake of this tragedy, we remain committed to supporting the victims' families, our first responders, and all in our community who have been affected. As a Board, we will continue working closely with our regional partners, school leaders, and public safety officials to ensure that counseling and other necessary resources are available during this difficult time.
We are deeply grateful for the tireless efforts of our emergency responders, who have been working around the clock to assist during this crisis. This is a very traumatic event, and we recognize the emotional toll this experience may have on them. We will ensure that they receive all of the support they need and deserve.
Now, more than ever, we must stand together as a community. I ask that you join me in keeping the victims and their families in your thoughts and prayers. In these difficult days ahead, let’s continue to support one another. Fairfax County stands ready to provide additional assistance as needed."
Fairfax County Public Schools
"We are devastated by the tragic news as we learn members of our FCPS community have lost their lives in the accident last night at Reagan National Airport.
Many are reaching out to share their sorrow and emotions at this difficult time. We are hearing from students, staff members, and others in the community who are expressing their care and concern for those who have lost loved ones. I invite you to join me in keeping all those affected by this deep community loss in our prayers.
We have more details that we can now share. Many on the flight were returning from a figure skating event in Wichita, Kansas. What we know at this time is that three of our FCPS students and six of our FCPS parents were lost, affecting multiple schools and departments here at FCPS. Two of the parents were current or former FCPS staff members. Multiplying the grief are the siblings, spouses, relatives, friends and colleagues who have lost loved ones.
We must remain sensitive to the privacy needs and concerns for those who are directly involved. Therefore, we are not releasing specific information such as names out of care for those who are directly involved at this time.
We know many in our FCPS community are now learning this tragic news and understanding the enormity of our loss. We have resources available to support students, staff, and families. I want to specifically recognize our principals, teachers, counselors, and other crisis teams who are responding to the needs of our students, families, and staff during this most difficult time. We also continue to be thankful for our first responders and community partners.
Our team is standing by and ready to provide necessary support for everyone in our FCPS community. In addition, this resource may assist you in having difficult conversations with your children.
We will continue to keep you updated as we are able. I speak for all of us at FCPS as we offer our condolences to everyone involved in this heartbreaking tragedy.
It is a time to hold one another closer…"
Park Authority
"With a heavy heart, the Fairfax County Park Authority extends its sympathies to the friends and families of those whose lives were lost in last night’s tragedy outside Reagan National Airport. This loss has been deeply felt throughout our close-knit ice-skating community and beyond. Our thoughts and prayers for comfort and healing go out to you in this difficult time."
Fairfax County's Response
The Police Department's Fairfax One helicopter, Marine Patrol Unit and Dive Team, along with the Fire and Rescue Department, which dispatched 22 units and 68 personnel, played key roles in search and rescue operations. Additionally, the Department of Emergency Management and Security supported the regional Incident Management Team, ensuring a coordinated and effective response.
Fairfax County leadership remains in close contact with regional partners and will continue to provide any assistance necessary as recovery efforts continue.
If You Find Debris
If you believe you have information related to the recovery efforts in the Potomac or Anacostia Rivers or on the shore, immediately call 911. Do not touch or remove the item(s). Following this guidance is critical to supporting the impacted families and investigation.
Mental Health Resources
Our Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has compiled a collection of resources focused on general behavioral health needs after a traumatic incident, including resources for children, youth, caregivers and first responders.
If you are suffering, you are not alone. It is important to reach out for help in challenging times. Friends, family or trained specialists and counselors are available to help and offer support.
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