King Charles has expressed his “profound sadness” following a tragic mid-air collision in Washington, D.C., which claimed the lives of 67 people in what is being described as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in recent history.
The catastrophic crash occurred on January 29, when American Eagle Flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The impact was so severe that both aircraft plunged into the Potomac River, leaving emergency crews scrambling to recover victims from the wreckage.
In response to the horrific incident, Buckingham Palace issued a heartfelt statement on behalf of King Charles and the royal family.
“My family and I have been profoundly shocked and saddened by the dreadful news of the tragic air accident in Washington, D.C., which has led to such a devastating loss of life,” the monarch shared in an emotional message.
He continued, “Our hearts, and our special thoughts, are with the people of the United States, and our deepest sympathy goes to the families and loved ones of all the victims.”
King Charles also took a moment to commend the bravery of the emergency responders, saying, “I would also like to pay a particular tribute to the emergency responders who acted so quickly to this horrendous event.”
The devastating tragedy has sent shockwaves across the U.S. and beyond, with leaders worldwide expressing their condolences and solidarity with the grieving families.
Authorities have confirmed that all 67 individuals onboard the two aircraft perished. The death toll has left communities in mourning, with families anxiously awaiting news as recovery efforts continue in the Potomac River.
Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene, with flames erupting from the aircraft before they plummeted into the water. One bystander told local reporters, “It was like something out of a nightmare. One moment, everything was normal, and the next, there was a massive explosion in the sky.”
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As rescue crews continue their search, investigators are working to determine the cause of the collision. Aviation experts are analyzing flight data and communications between air traffic control and the pilots to understand what led to the fatal impact.
Preliminary reports suggest that low visibility and miscommunication may have played a role, but officials have yet to release a definitive cause.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a full-scale investigation, and the White House has pledged to provide all necessary resources to uncover the truth behind this devastating event.
King Charles’ public statement of solidarity highlights the deep historical ties between the British and American people, especially in times of crisis. The monarch has long been an advocate for international unity and humanitarian aid, often reaching out during moments of national grief and hardship.
His message of “profound sadness” reflects not only his own sorrow but also that of the entire United Kingdom, as the world collectively mourns the tragic loss of 67 lives.
As recovery operations continue and investigations unfold, the focus remains on honoring the victims, supporting their families, and ensuring such a tragedy never happens again.
