A man has revealed the final text from his wife, who was aboard American Airlines Flight 5342 before it crashed over Washington, D.C. The plane collided with a military helicopter over the Potomac River at 8:47 p.m. ET on January 29 while approaching Reagan National Airport. The crash involved 60 passengers, four crew members, and three soldiers on the Black Hawk helicopter.

Hamaad Raza, whose wife was on the flight, told WUSA9 he had been in contact with her just minutes before. “She texted me that they were landing in 20 minutes,” he said. After his messages went undelivered, he realized something was wrong. Witnesses reported seeing sparks shooting from the plane, describing it as a “giant Roman candle.”

A search and rescue operation is underway, with 18 bodies recovered so far. American Airlines confirmed the accident and urged families to contact them for information.

President Trump stated he was “fully briefed” and thanked first responders for their efforts, adding, “May God bless their souls.” Vice President JD Vance urged prayers for those involved. All flights at Reagan National Airport have been halted as authorities continue their search for survivors.