Hundreds of emergency workers are braving freezing temperatures to search for survivors after a passenger plane and a US Army helicopter collided midair near Washington, DC, Wednesday evening. The crash happened near Reagan National Airport, with both aircraft plunging into the icy waters of the Potomac River.

Authorities confirmed there are fatalities, though the exact number remains unclear. Rescue teams are working against the clock in harsh conditions, with water temperatures hovering around 35 degrees—dangerously cold for survival.

The passenger plane, American Airlines Flight 5342, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. It was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Reagan National Airport when the collision occurred. The US Army helicopter had a crew of three on board and was reportedly on a training mission at the time.

Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene. "I saw the plane bank sharply, then it lit up bright yellow with sparks before everything went dark," said one witness who was driving nearby.

The airport, one of the busiest in the country, halted all takeoffs and landings until Thursday morning. Air traffic control audio captured the tense moments before the crash, with operators instructing the helicopter to pass behind the plane.

Family members of those on board are anxiously awaiting news. "I’m praying someone is pulling her out of the river right now," said a man whose wife was on the plane.

The search operation is expected to take days due to the challenging conditions. Divers are facing murky water, floating ice, and near-freezing temperatures that can cause hypothermia within minutes.

President Donald Trump expressed his condolences and praised the efforts of first responders. "May God bless their souls," he said in a statement.

This incident could mark one of the deadliest air disasters in recent US history. As the investigation continues, questions remain about how the collision occurred and whether it could have been prevented.

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.