Heartbreaking Last Text from Wife Aboard Doomed American Airlines Flight 5342
In the wake of the tragic midair collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. military helicopter, the story of Hamaad Raza and his wife has touched the hearts of many. Raza’s wife was among the 60 passengers and four crew members on board the flight when it plummeted into the icy Potomac River on Wednesday night.
In an emotional interview with WUSA9, Raza shared the last text message he received from his wife: “Landing in 20 minutes.” When his replies went undelivered, he knew something was terribly wrong.
Raza revealed that his wife, who frequently traveled to and from Wichita, Kansas, for work, had always been fearful of flying. “She never really felt comfortable on board,” he told reporter Larry Miller. “I’m just praying that somebody’s pulling her out of the river right now, as we speak. That’s all I can pray for. I’m just praying to God.”
A Nation in Mourning
The crash, which occurred around 9 p.m., has left the nation in shock. Flight 5342 was carrying members of the U.S. Figure Skating team, who were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita. The governing body confirmed the tragic news in a statement, expressing their deep sorrow over the loss of athletes, coaches, and family members.
Rescue efforts were launched immediately, with approximately 300 rescuers in rubber boats braving the icy waters of the Potomac River. John Donnelly, Washington, D.C.’s fire and emergency services chief, described the challenging conditions: “The challenge is access, there is wind, pieces of ice (on the water). It is dangerous and hard to work in.”
Despite their heroic efforts, Donnelly later confirmed that the operation had shifted from rescue to recovery. “At this point, we do not believe there are any survivors from this accident,” he said.
Statements from American Airlines and President Trump
American Airlines issued a statement expressing their concern for the passengers and crew on board. “American Eagle Flight 5342 en route from Wichita, Kansas (ICT), to Washington, D.C. (DCA) was involved in an accident at DCA. The flight was operated by PSA Airlines with a CRJ-700. Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft. We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts.”
President Donald Trump also addressed the tragedy, confirming that he had received a detailed briefing on the accident. “May God Bless their souls,” he said in a statement. “Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders.”
A Community in Grief
As the nation mourns the lives lost in this heartbreaking event, stories like Hamaad Raza’s remind us of the human toll behind the headlines. His wife’s fear of flying and her final text message underscore the fragility of life and the pain felt by those left behind.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Hamaad Raza, the families of the victims, and all those affected by this tragedy. Please SHARE this article to honor their memory and keep their loved ones in your thoughts.