Danasia Elder, Black Flight Attendant Killed on American Airlines Flight That Crashed in the Potomac River

Nationwide — Danasia Elder is the name of the African American flight attendant on the American Airlines flight that was landing at Reagan National Airport when it tragically crashed into a Black Hawk military helicopter. She is from Charlotte, North Carolina, and leaves behind her husband and two children, Kayden and Dallas.

According to reports, her brother-in-law, Brandon Payne, described her as “full of life,” highlighting her love for God, her kids, and travel.

The other flight attendant onboard has been identified as 52-year-old Ian Epstein, who was also from the Charlotte area. Sadly, the entire crew was among the 67 passengers killed as the flight coming from Wichita, Kansas made its final approach for landing.

The pilot, Captain Jonathan Campos, was only 34 years old, and First Officer Samuel Lilley was only 28.

The tragic collision, which occurred just after 8:45 p.m., stands as the deadliest commercial aviation disaster in the U.S. in over 15 years. Initial reports suggest that both planes were on their designated flight paths within a heavily trafficked airspace under clear evening skies.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has vowed a thorough investigation, stressing that protecting public safety is the top priority. Meanwhile, recovery crews are meticulously piecing together the chain of events that led to the devastating crash.