The twin-engine commercial jet, operated by a regional airline, was en route to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when it collided with a Black Hawk helicopter conducting routine training. Witnesses reported seeing a fiery explosion in the sky before the plane spiraled downward, crashing into the river.

Authorities have confirmed that 60 passengers and 6 crew members were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash. The helicopter carried 4 military personnel.

Emergency responders, including the US Coast Guard, local fire departments, and military personnel, are currently conducting search and rescue operations. So far, 17 survivors have been pulled from the frigid waters, while multiple bodies have been recovered.

Survivors are being treated for severe hypothermia at nearby hospitals. Rescue efforts are being hampered by strong currents and ice on the river's surface. Authorities fear the death toll could rise as the search continues.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest possible miscommunication between air traffic control and the military helicopter.

"I saw the jet struggling after the explosion, and it just plummeted into the river. It was horrifying," a local resident recounted. Another witness described hearing a loud boom and seeing debris falling from the sky.

This incident marks one of the deadliest aviation accidents in recent history near the nation’s capital. The crash has prompted immediate flight restrictions in the Washington DC area and intensified scrutiny over airspace management near military zones.

President Biden issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of the victims and commending the bravery of first responders. "We are doing everything possible to assist rescue operations and ensure the safety of all affected."

The Potomac River has been the site of previous aviation incidents, most notably the 1982 crash of Air Florida Flight 90, which similarly ended in the freezing waters.

Authorities are expected to provide further updates as rescue efforts and investigations progress. The tragedy has reignited concerns over air traffic coordination and military-civilian flight operations near busy urban areas.