The tragic plane and helicopter crash near Washington DC on Wednesday night left 67 people dead, including attorney, former pageant contestant, and up and coming professor Kiah Duggins.
Key Takeaways
- An American Airlines flight collided with a military helicopter near Washington DC, causing 67 fatalities.
- Among the victims was Kiah Duggins, a former Miss Kansas contestant, who was set to start as a law professor at Howard University.
- The tragedy is the deadliest US airline accident in over twenty years.
- Multiple notable figures, including top figure skaters and accomplished professionals, were among the people on the flight.
- Authorities are currently investigating the crash.
The Crash Details
An American Airlines plane en route to Washington DC collided with a military helicopter, leading to the tragic deaths of 67 individuals. Among the victims who has been named is Kiah Duggins, a former Miss Kansas contestant and an attorney celebrated for her grace and intellect. This incident marks the deadliest airline accident on US soil in over two decades.
Reports confirm the collision involved 64 people on board the plane and three personnel on the helicopter. The recovery operations have thus far identified a number of victims, drawing national attention and sorrow.
REST IN PEACE 💔 The first confirmed victim from Wichita in last night's plane crash in DC has been identified as civil rights attorney Kiah Duggins.
Former Sedgwick County Commissioner Lacey Cruse confirmed Duggins' passing, saying she was a "brave and beautiful soul." pic.twitter.com/qeAIOZLAZZ
— KAKE News (@KAKEnews) January 30, 2025
Kiah Duggins and Other Lives Lost
Kiah Duggins, a civil rights attorney, was deeply involved in advocating for what she believed to be fair justice practices. Her new journey as a law professor was tragically cut short as she traveled to prepare for her position at the prestigious institution.
Duggins’ former pageant director, Larry Strong, spoke up about her death on social media, saying, “It is with heavy heart that the Miss Augusta and Miss Butler County organization just learned that Kiah Duggins Miss Butler County 2014 [and] 2015 was a passenger in the plane that crashed last evening in Washington DC.”
The crash also claimed the lives of top figure skaters, including Spencer Lane and Russian coaches among others. Victims spanned diverse domains including a mechanical engineering student from Cedarville University, Grace Maxwell, recognized as “a thoughtful, quiet student leader.”
Community and Family Impact
The loss extends beyond professional spheres, deeply affecting families and communities. Of Duggins, former Sedgwick County Commissioner Lacey Cruse said, “Her loss is heartbreaking, not only for her family and friends but for everyone who believes in justice and equality.”
As investigations continue into the causes of the crash, there remains a strong effort to remember and honor those lost.
