Tragic Collision Claims Lives of 67, Including Captain Rebecca Lobach

The U.S. Army has identified Captain Rebecca Lobach, 28, from Durham, North Carolina, as one of the three soldiers aboard the H-60 Blackhawk helicopter that tragically collided with an American Airlines CRJ-700 passenger jet on Wednesday. The crash, which occurred as the jet was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, resulted in the deaths of all 67 people on board.

Initially, the Army had withheld Rebecca Lobach’s identity at her family’s request, but later released it in coordination with them. In a heartfelt statement, her family expressed their deep sorrow: “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Rebecca. She was a bright star in all our lives. Rebecca was a warrior and would not hesitate to defend her country in battle.”

Rebecca Lobach had a distinguished career, having served as an aviation officer in the Army since 2019 and previously working as a White House aide during the Biden administration. Her achievements included the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon. A top 20% graduate in ROTC from the University of North Carolina, she had an exemplary military record, serving as a platoon leader and company executive officer in the 12th Aviation Battalion at Davison Army Airfield, Fort Belvoir, Virginia. With over 450 flight hours, she earned certification as a pilot in command after rigorous testing by senior pilots.

The crash occurred when the American Airlines flight from Wichita, Kansas, carrying 64 passengers, was preparing to land and collided with the Blackhawk helicopter, which had entered the jet’s path. Military officials confirmed that the helicopter crew was highly experienced and familiar with the congested airspace around Washington, D.C. Military aircraft often conduct such flights as part of training for potential emergency evacuations of key government officials.

By Saturday afternoon, the remains of 42 victims had been recovered from the Potomac River, with 38 positively identified. Recovery teams are working tirelessly to retrieve all remains, though some may only be accessible once the aircraft fuselage is removed from the water. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, analyzing factors such as the helicopter’s altitude, air traffic control communications, and possible use of night vision equipment. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days, though the full investigation may take up to a year.

Defense Secretary Pete Heg confirmed that black boxes from both aircraft had been recovered. Over 300 responders are involved in the recovery efforts, aided by improved weather conditions. Two Navy salvage barges are expected to assist in lifting heavy wreckage.

Wednesday’s crash is the deadliest aviation disaster in the U.S. since November 12, 2001, when an aircraft crashed into a New York City neighborhood, killing 265 people. While air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation, congested airspace around Reagan National poses challenges even for the most experienced pilots.

Officials continue to investigate air traffic control staffing, training, and regulations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has long struggled with a shortage of controllers, which could be a factor under scrutiny.

The nation mourns the loss of Captain Rebecca Lobach and all victims of this tragic accident, as authorities work to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.