On Wednesday evening, a devastating plane crash in Washington D.C. took 67 lives, and now, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is speaking out about the incident. Here’s what we know so far, and what’s being done to uncover the truth behind this tragedy.
In a heartfelt video shared on social media Thursday morning, Hegseth confirmed that the Department of Defense is working closely with a specialized team from the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence to investigate the crash. This “active” and “ongoing” investigation aims to figure out what went wrong and why.
The crash, which happened around 8:48 p.m., involved a U.S. Army UH-6 Black Hawk helicopter from the 12th Aviation Battalion at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Tragically, it collided with a civilian airline, killing 64 people on board, along with three soldiers who were part of the Army crew.
Hegseth shared that the crew was in the middle of a routine night training exercise, something they did regularly to stay sharp. Despite their experience, which included using night-vision goggles, this was a flight that ended in heartbreaking tragedy.
“We’re working hard to understand exactly what happened,” Hegseth said. “It’s a horrific loss for all those affected, both the civilians on that airline and the soldiers aboard that helicopter.”
Right now, authorities are keeping the identities of those involved private until all families have been informed. The battalion has been ordered to pause its operations for 48 hours while the investigation continues.
The investigation is moving quickly, and officials hope to soon have answers about the crash’s cause, including whether the aircraft was flying at the correct altitude at the time of the incident.
“We’re doing everything we can to get to the bottom of this,” Hegseth said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives.”
This tragic event has come just after major changes in aviation regulations by President Trump, including the firing of key officials and pauses on new regulations. Trump’s decision to overhaul the TSA and Coast Guard, along with other moves, has sparked plenty of discussions.
In addition to the crash investigation, Hegseth also touched on President Trump’s recent executive orders regarding Guantánamo Bay, including plans to deport thousands of undocumented immigrants to the military base detention facility in Cuba.
As the investigation unfolds, we all continue to hope for clarity and justice for the victims and their families during this incredibly difficult time.
