As of this morning, Unified Command confirms all 67 victims have been recovered and positively identified from the aircraft collision. This marks one of the final steps in bringing closure to the families and the community.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner continues its work to ensure the dignified return of remains to their families and continue supporting the families through this process.
Our thoughts are with the victims’ families as they endure this heartbreaking loss. We offer our deepest condolences and remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting them through this difficult time.
With the identification process complete, Unified Command remains focused on clearing the remaining wreckage from the Potomac River. While all victims have been identified, the Metropolitan Police Department, DC Fire and EMS, fire and police departments from across the National Capital Region, and the US Coast Guard will continue to search shorelines and other identified areas in the Potomac River for potential wreckage identification for recovery by salvage crews.
The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Baltimore District, together with the US Coast Guard (USCG) and US Navy’s Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (SUPSALV), expect to complete removal of all major components of the American Airlines regional jet from the waterway on February 6. Crane operations will then transition to removal of the US Army Black Hawk before clearing large debris in the remaining debris field with salvage baskets. Should any additional items of interest be located during ongoing salvage operations, crews will ensure proper coordination with the appropriate authorities.
The community is reminded if you believe you have information related to the recovery efforts in the Potomac or Anacostia Rivers or on the shore, immediately call 911. Do not touch or remove the item(s). Following this guidance is critical to supporting the impacted families and investigation.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), American and PSA Airlines, and District officials continue to provide support through the Family Assistance Center, ensuring families have access to vital resources.
Waterway Closure Reminder: The Potomac River north of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge remains closed to all watercraft until further notice.