Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Sunday that she supported getting rid of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) "the way it exists today." 

In an appearance on CNN’s "State of the Union," Noem’s stance appeared in line with that of President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, who have both suggested shutting down FEMA could be an option, as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has reportedly gained access to FEMA’s sensitive disaster relief data to review its programs. 

"Can and should Donald Trump shut it down?" CNN’s Dana Bash asked Noem. 

"He can. And I believe that he will do that evaluation with his team," Noem said. "And he's talking about it, which I'm grateful for. He'll work with Congress, though, to make sure that it's done correctly and that we're still there to help folks who have a terrible disaster or a crisis in their life. He's been very clear that he still believes there's a role for the federal government to come in and help people get back up on their feet. But there's a lot of fraud and waste and abuse out there. And since President Trump has taken over and come back into this administration, we've seen incredible change." 

NOEM RESPONDS TO SECRET SERVICE SCRUTINY AS TRUMP TO BECOME 1ST PRESIDENT TO ATTEND SUPER BOWL

Noem, who visited Asheville, North Carolina, on Saturday to meet with Hurricane Helene victims and survey the damage, told CNN that she oversaw 12 different natural disasters that prompted a FEMA response when she was governor of South Dakota.

As Trump considers block grants for state and local officials experiencing natural disasters, Noem said Sunday that she knew from experience that local officials, such as county emergency management directors, mayors, city council and commissioners "made way better decisions than the people in Washington, D.C."  

Asked what she would tell Trump if the president asked her to get rid of FEMA, Noem said, "I would say yes, get rid of FEMA the way it exists today." 

"We still need the resources and the funds and the finances to go to people that have these types of disasters like Hurricane Helene and the fires in California," Noem told Bash. "But you need to let the local officials make the decisions on how that is deployed so it can be deployed much quicker. And we don't need this bureaucracy that's picking and choosing winners." 

Noem said Trump "has been clear, too, that he still wants to help people," but condemned FEMA for "targeting individuals, helping some people and not others." The secretary appeared to be referencing how FEMA employees under former President Biden skipped homes in hurricane-ravaged areas that had displayed pro-Trump signs last year. 

KRISTI NOEM HEADS TO ASHEVILLE AMID HEAVY CRITICISM OF FEMA RESPONSE UNDER BIDEN

Noem also referenced how Trump managed to close 80% of the open FEMA cases in North Carolina related to Hurricane Helene," adding, "It's amazing when you have somebody who cares … how quickly the response can be." 

The DHS secretary also defended Musk, as DOGE conducts an audit of federal agencies.

"We're working with them at the president's direction to find what we can do to make our department much more efficient," Noem said. "This is essentially an audit of the federal government…. And one of the things I've been very clear to the appropriators in the Senate and the House is please give me the authority to reprogram funds." 

Asked if she felt comfortable with Musk's data access, Noem said, "Elon Musk is part of the administration that is helping us identify where we can find savings and what we can do. And he has gone through the processes to make sure that he has the authority. The president has appointed him. I am today by the work that he is doing, by identifying waste, fraud and abuse. And his information that he has is looking at programs, not focusing on personal data and information." 

After the interview, Musk posted to X on Monday morning that his DOGE team discovered that FEMA last week alone sent $59 million to "luxury hotels in New York City to house illegal migrants." Musk said that "sending this money violated the law and is in gross insubordination to the President’s executive order," and, "that money is meant for American disaster relief and instead is being spent on high end hotels for illegals!" 

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"A clawback demand will be made today to recoup those funds," Musk added. 

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said they have recovered the black box from the deadly Jan. 31 Learjet 55 plane crash in Philadelphia.

The announcement, made on Sunday, said investigators located the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) eight feet below the site of the initial impact. 

Investigators also found the aircraft's enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS), which the NTSB said "could also contain flight data."

"Both components will be sent to the NTSB Vehicle Recorders Laboratory in Washington, DC for evaluation," a statement said. "NTSB investigators have recovered both engines. Wreckage recovery continues tomorrow and all of the wreckage will be sent to a secure location in Delaware for further examination."

EERIE PHOTOS SHOW INTERIOR OF DOOMED MEDEVAC JET THAT CRASHED IN PHILADELPHIA

Flight data recorders and CVRs are tools that help investigators reconstruct the events that led up to a plane crash. They are orange to make them easier to find in wreckage, and are usually installed in a plane's tail section, which is considered the most survivable part of the aircraft, according to the NTSB's website.

The Jet Rescue Air Ambulance crash that took place near the Roosevelt Mall killed at least seven people and injured 22 others.

WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE VICTIMS OF THE PHILADELPHIA CRASH

Four crew members and two passengers – a pediatric patient and her mother – were on the plane that was headed to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, the company said. They were all Mexican nationals.

A person in a car was the seventh fatal victim of the fiery crash.

Meanwhile, 38-year-old Jason Rodriguez – who was in the area at the time of the crash – remains missing, according to FOX 29. His family says he was shopping when they last heard from him.

Fox News' Andrea Margolis, Greg Wehner and the Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Wreckage from the deadly midair collision near Reagan National Airport will start to be removed from the Potomac River Monday morning as officials said they have yet to locate 12 of the victims. 

The collision between a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and a Bombardier CRJ700 airliner operating under PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, on Wednesday night left 67 dead. D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly, Sr. told reporters Sunday that the remains of 55 victims have been identified, as the recovery effort continues.

"We believe we're going to be able to recover all of the victims. But no, we don't know where they all are at this point," Donnelly said ahead of Monday’s operation. 

Col. Francis Pera from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers said he anticipates "a successful lift," noting they will cover the wreckage with a tent to protect any human remains. 

55 VICTIMS IN WASHINGTON, DC MIDAIR COLLISION PULLED FROM POTOMAC RIVER 

"We do have a process where we will be watching the lift as it happens," Pera explained. "And then if there are remains in there, that will not move while we're recovering the wreckage. We will bring that wreckage to the surface of the barge. Our process [is] to immediately tent the barge to make sure that we have full discretion." 

"When we begin the lift process tomorrow, our goal is to really lift as much as we can – given the fact that we are also accounting for the human remains component – and then our goal is to then transfer that, those pieces of equipment over to a flatbed trailer that will now take it over to a designated hangar, so that the investigation can begin," he added. 

THIRD SOLDIER INSIDE BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER INVOLVED IN DC MIDAIR COLLISION IDENTIFIED 

Pera said divers at the site are equipped with HD cameras, whose feeds are being monitored inside a support boat. 

"So you honestly, you've got four or five sets of eyes looking inside [the] wreckage at the same time," he said. 

Pera also said that "reuniting those lost in the tragic incident is really what keeps us all going."

"We've got teams that have been working this effort since the beginning and we're committed to making this happen," he said.

On Sunday, families of the victims visited the crash site.  

Connolly said while the lift operation is ongoing, local teams "will continue to search down the shorelines and around the river to make sure that we're getting all the debris that's out there." 

"And if by chance, as a member of the public, you come across some of that, you should call 911 and report it to them, and we will get it taken care of and get it examined," he said. 

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recently released video of officials combing through the debris and destruction left after the fatal Jan. 31 plane crash in Philadelphia, which killed at least seven people and injured 22 others.

The footage, which was shot on Sunday, showed the haunting aftermath of the Learjet 55 crash. The eerily-empty streets were strewn with debris, yellow tape and abandoned vehicles, as well as construction barriers guarding the scene of the crash.

One official stood in a crater-sized hole to inspect the rubble. Drone footage also shows the abandoned cars with broken windows covered in ash several yards away from the crater.

On Sunday, the NTSB announced that it had recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) from the scene, which was found eight feet below the site of the initial impact. Investigators also found the aircraft's enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS), which the NTSB says "could also contain flight data."

KAZAKHSTAN PLANE CRASH SURVIVORS SAY THEY HEARD BANGS BEFORE AIRCRAFT WENT DOWN; PUTIN ISSUES STATEMENT

"Both components will be sent to the NTSB Vehicle Recorders Laboratory in Washington, DC for evaluation," the statement added.  "NTSB investigators have recovered both engines. Wreckage recovery continues tomorrow and all of the wreckage will be sent to a secure location in Delaware for further examination."

The crash, which involved a medevac jet, took place near the Roosevelt Mall at around 6:30 p.m. on Friday evening. The aircraft was departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport at the time, en route to Missouri for a fuel stop and eventually Mexico.

Jet Air Ambulance spokesperson Shai Gold told Fox News Digital that a passenger on the flight was a Mexican citizen who was in the U.S. for life-saving medical treatment. The young girl was headed home at the time with her mother.

In total, six people were on the plane, including four crew members. On Sunday, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said that at least 22 people were injured, and the seventh fatal victim was in a car at the time of the crash.

"Five of the victims remain hospitalized currently, and three of them are in critical condition," the mayor said at the press conference. "We have not, out of respect for their families and their loved ones, shared the names of any of those who have been impacted. Please continue to lift them, their families and loved ones up in prayer."

Fires erupted immediately after the plane crash, but Philadelphia fire officials eventually got the flames under control. Gold told Fox News Digital that the aircraft was "loaded with jet fuel that's highly flammable."

STAFFING AT REAGAN WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIRPORT AIR CONTROL TOWER WAS 'NOT NORMAL' ON NIGHT OF COLLISION: FAA

"There is no indication that anybody survived, and by the debris field, I would be pleasantly surprised to learn otherwise," Gold explained at the time.

The Jet Air Ambulance spokesperson added that the pilot aboard the Learjet was "a very seasoned pilot," and that the co-pilot was also experienced.

"They know the job, and they do it many times," Gold added. "We fly 600 to 700 missions a year. We are very busy, very active, and we keep top-notch staff."

On Sunday, the NTSB announced that it had recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) from the scene, which was found eight feet below the site of the initial impact. Investigators also found the aircraft's enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS), which the NTSB says "could also contain flight data."

Fox News Digital's Greg Wehner, Alexandra Koch and Lorraine Taylor contributed to this report.

The operator of a medevac jet that crashed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Friday evening released new photos showing the interior of the aircraft before the deadly crash.

Jet Rescue Air, the company operating the medical transport that crashed and killed at least seven people, while injuring 19 others, released three photos of the plane's interior.

The company’s spokesperson told Fox News, "those are the pics of the actual aircraft’s interior. You can see its setup. We call it ‘flying ICU setting.’"

The photos show a stretcher for the patient, which is covered in a white sheet and surrounded by various pieces of medical equipment used to track vitals and care for the patient.

PHILADELPHIA PLANE TRAGEDY: MEDICAL AMBULANCE TRANSPORTING PEDIATRIC PATIENT CRASHES, EXPLODES NEAR HOMES

There are two seats positioned next to and facing the stretcher, with two others near the foot of the stretcher.

The company also provided a picture of a black box similar to the one from the jet, which has yet to be recovered from the crash site.

COMPANY OPERATING PLANE IN PHILLY CRASH HAD PREVIOUS FATAL INCIDENT IN MEXICO: REPORTS

"This picture is a voice recorder," Jet Rescue Air Ambulance said. "It records the conversations with the pilots at the tower as well as pilots and co-pilots amongst themselves. This is what we’re looking for. The plane has an identical box to this. This is not the box from the plane."

PHILADELPHIA PLANE TRAGEDY: MEDICAL AMBULANCE TRANSPORTING MEDICAL PATIENT CRASHES, EXPLODING NEAR HOMES

On Friday, Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, said its Learjet 55 crashed while departing from Northeast Philadelphia Airport around 6:30 p.m. The incident happened on a street near Roosevelt Mall.

Four crew members and two passengers – a pediatric patient and her mother – were on the plane that was headed to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, the company said. They were all Mexican nationals.

STAFFING AT REAGAN WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIRPORT AIR CONTROL TOWER WAS 'NOT NORMAL' ON NIGHT OF COLLISION: FAA

Shai Gold, managing director of corporate strategy and communications for Air Ambulance, previously told ABC 6 news there was "absolutely no indication" of any issues with the plane prior to the crash.

The maintenance records of the airplane were "impeccable" and the company goes by the book, following manufacturer specifications, according to Gold.

He added that the entire crew onboard was top-notch.

"The flight team [is] very experienced," Gold said. "We pick the best of the best to fly those air ambulances. These are very careful, very seasoned individuals."

Fox News Digital’s Alexandra Koch and Landon Mion contributed to this report.

An aviation attorney predicts families of the midair collision victims will be filing lawsuits against both the U.S. government and American Airlines in the coming days. 

No survivors are expected after an Army Black Hawk helicopter on a training mission collided with an American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people as the jet was preparing to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday evening. Three soldiers were aboard the Black Hawk. 

"Typically, right after — obviously, the families are dealing with a lot of shock and grief right now — a lot of times it’s really hard for people to wrap their minds around aircraft accidents because they’re just not supposed to happen," James Brauchle told Fox News Digital on Thursday, adding that air travel is "extremely safe."

"We haven’t had a commercial accident in the U.S. involving a U.S. carrier since 2009."

DC PLANE CRASH TIMELINE: MIDAIR COLLISION INVOLVES 67 PASSENGERS, CREW MEMBERS, SOLDIERS

Buffalo-bound Colgan Air Flight 3407 killed all 49 people on board on Feb. 12, 2009, after the plane stalled and crashed into a home, killing a person inside. 

Brauchle said the families’ main question as they struggle with their grief is "why did this happen? How did this happen? How could it have happened? And they really are seeking answers." 

He added that once they get through their "initial shock, that’s usually the next step is seeking the answers and wanting to know why this happened."

DC PLANE CRASH AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL AUDIO REVEALS MOMENT CONTROLLERS SAW DISASTER: ‘TOWER DID YOU SEE THAT?’

Brauchle said he doesn’t think there’s ever been a commercial aircraft crash in the U.S. that didn’t result in litigation. 

"So, I'm going to assume that that's going to happen," Brauchle said. "And that's usually done, obviously, through the filing of a lawsuit."

Based on his professional experience, he said, the airline and the government are both likely to be sued. 

Brauchle said the government’s accountability could be twofold.

"One for obviously operating the helicopter, because it was being flown by the Army, but also air traffic control that’s regulating and monitoring that airspace is FAA, which is again a government agency," he said. 

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Brauchle cautioned that it is early in the investigation.

An internal preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reportedly showed that the number of staff members working at the air control tower at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in Arlington, Virginia, was "not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic."

On Wednesday night, an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter collided near Reagan National Airport outside of Washington, D.C., and all 67 people onboard both aircraft are presumed to be dead.

The Associated Press obtained a report which showed one air traffic controller was working two positions at the time of the crash. 

Typically, the two assignments are split between two air traffic controllers.

FAA PANEL WARNS THAT CURRENT SAFETY LEVELS ARE ‘UNSUNSTAINABLE’

"The position configuration was not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic," the report says.

The FAA did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s questions and request for comment on the matter.

Despite the report saying the staffing was "not normal," a person familiar with the matter told the AP that staffing in the control tower at DCA on Wednesday night was at a normal level.

The person explained that the positions get combined regularly if air controllers have to step away from the console for breaks, or if they are involved in a shift change. Controllers may also have to step away when air traffic is slow, the person explained, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss internal procedures.

The air control tower at Reagan National has been understaffed for years with 19 fully certified controllers as of September 2023. However, staffing targets set by the FAA and the controllers’ union call for 30.

FAA INVESTS $121M FOR AIRPORT MODIFICATIONS TO REDUCE RISK OF RUNWAY INCURSIONS

The FAA’s air traffic controller shortage is nothing new at Reagan National or most of the country’s air traffic control facilities.

Last year, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle appeared on FOX Business Network’s "The Claman Countdown" and warned that shortages could cause issues during the summer season if they were not addressed.

Biffle explained that while technology could help address the issue while promoting greater efficiencies in air travel over the longer term, the air traffic controller shortage contributes to delays and cancelations.

FAA HEAD STRESSES NEED FOR AVIATION INDUSTRY TO END CLOSE CALLS, RENEWS SAFETY PUSH

"There's opportunities to improve the technology that is kind of the backbone of air traffic control," Biffle said. "If you look to Europe, for example, there are some opportunities that we could adopt here that would be much more efficient — you'd burn a lot less fuel, get there faster and so forth. That is a big opportunity."

"At the same time, it doesn't negate the issue that I think we're 3,000 controllers short right now. And so that just causes, when you have a weather event, it just causes there to be more delays," he explained. "And ultimately, like we've seen the last few days, those delays then turn into cancelations because crews time out and so forth. [I] would really like to see the staffing get fixed. The technology is probably a longer solution."

The FAA's National Airspace System (NAS) safety review team created in April 2023 following several close runway incursions during takeoffs or landings at busy airports, determined that year that the concurrence of several challenges such as the air traffic control staffing crunch, insufficient funding and outdated technology "results in an erosion of safety margins that must be urgently addressed."

"The current erosion in the margin of safety in the NAS caused by the confluence of these challenges is rendering the current level of safety unsustainable," the team's report said.

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The cause of the shortage has been attributed to employee turnover and other factors like tight budgets, and ultimately, it has resulted in many controllers working 10-hour days and as many as six days a week, the New York Times reported.

Fox News Digital’s Louis Casiano contributed to this report.

President Donald Trump defended his comments questioning whether diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies played a role in the disastrous aircraft collision above the nation’s capital that killed 67 people. 

Trump, speaking to reporters in the White House briefing room late Thursday morning, highlighted efforts by the Biden administration to lower aviation standards, though he acknowledged that the cause of Wednesday night's crash has yet to be determined.

CNN host Kaitlan Collins objected to Trump’s rhetoric, calling him out for "blaming Democrats and DEI policies and air traffic control and seemingly the member of the U.S. military who was flying that Black Hawk helicopter."

She went on to ask, "Don't you think you're getting ahead of the investigation right now?"

TRUMP ATTACKS DEI POLICIES AFTER DC PLANE CRASH, SAYS FAA EMPLOYEES MUST BE HELD TO 'HIGHEST STANDARDS'

"No, I don’t think so at all. I don’t think, with the names of the people, you mean the names of the people that are on the plane?" Trump asked. "You think that’s going to make a difference? They are a group of people that have lost their lives. If you want a list of the names, we can give you that, we will be giving that very soon. We’re in coordination with American Airlines. We’re in coordination very strongly, obviously, with the military."

The president told the news personality, "I think that’s not a very smart question, I’m surprised, coming from you."

An American Airlines jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with a military Black Hawk helicopter carrying three service members on Wednesday night in the skies above Washington, D.C., causing wreckage from both aircraft to plunge into the Potomac River. There were no survivors.  

The tragic incident has sparked a national conversation about flying safety in the U.S.

5 OF THE DEADLIEST US AIR DISASTERS

Earlier in the press conference, Trump noted that he had raised the qualification standards for air traffic controllers during his first administration, but he said President Joe Biden had lowered them once he left office.

"The FAA is actively recruiting workers who suffer severe intellectual disabilities, psychiatric problems, and other mental and physical conditions under a diversity and inclusion hiring initiative spelled out on the agency's website," Trump said.

Family and friends of those who lost their lives in the deadly American Airlines and Army helicopter collision are sharing tributes online as they wait for more answers about how this tragedy happened. 

The midair crash occurred around 9 p.m. Wednesday, when an Army helicopter and an American Airlines plane collided near Reagan National Airport outside of Washington, D.C. All 67 people onboard both aircraft are presumed dead.

Tim Lilley identified his son, 28-year-old Sam Lilley, as first officer on American Airlines flight 5342.

"I was so proud when Sam became a pilot. Now it hurts so bad I can’t even cry myself to sleep. I know I’ll see him again, but my heart is breaking," Tim Lilley wrote in a Facebook post. "Sam was the First Officer on the flight that crashed in DC last night. He was doing great in his career and his personal life. He was engaged to get married in the fall."

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: MILITARY BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER COLLIDES MIDAIR WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES JET

"It is so devastating to lose someone that is loved so much," he added.

Scott Hubbard Jr., a friend and former colleague of Sam Lilley, wrote on Facebook: "I had the honor to help welcome him to one of his first flying jobs at SkyLens as the outgoing chief pilot due to starting my career at the airline. He was a phenomenal pilot. I never got to fly with him at the airlines as I changed companies but I was so proud to know him and consider him friend. My heart is heavy for his family and fiancé."

"You left an everlasting impact on us all and we are grateful for you," he added. "Blue Skies brother. And my condolences are with all the other crew members, the passengers, and military service members in the helicopter. This is a sad day."

A flight attendant on board the flight has been identified as Ian Epstein.

"It is with a very heavy heart and extreme sadness that myself along with our children Hannah Epstein and Joanna Epstein and his sister Robbie Epstein Bloom and her husband Steven Bloom and nieces Andi and Dani inform you that Ian Epstein was one of the flight attendants on American Airlines Flight 5342 that collided last night when they were landing in DC," Debi Epstein, Ian's wife, wrote in a Facebook post. "Please pray for Ian and our family as we travel to DC. We will update when plans are made."

Fox News Digital was told that Epstein, who grew up in Montreal, Quebec, had also recently become a flight attendant a few years ago, and loved traveling and his job. 

"Ian Epstein was full of life. He loved being a flight attendant because he truly enjoyed traveling and meeting new people. But his true love was his family.  He was a father, a stepfather, a husband and a brother! He will be truly missed," Epstein's family said in a statement sent to Fox News. 

DC PLANE CRASH TIMELINE: MIDAIR COLLISION INVOLVES 67 PASSENGERS, CREW MEMBERS, SOLDIERS

American Airlines has not yet confirmed the identities of Lilley or Epstein.

6 WITH TIES TO BOSTON FIGURE SKATING CLUB KILLED IN MIDAIR COLLISION, OFFICIAL SAYS

D.C. fire and EMS chief John A. Donnelly said during a news conference Thursday that he’s confident all of the bodies from the crash will be recovered.

"I’m confident that we will do that," he told reporters. "It will take us a little bit of time. It may involve some more equipment."

TRUMP SAYS REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED: 'CLEAR NIGHT'

Fox News Digital has learned the identity of another victim on board flight 5342, a mother of two young children, Wendy Shaffer. 

"I'm still waiting to wake up from this nightmare, but I fear this is the truth. Wendy was not just beautiful on the outside, but was a truly amazing woman through and through," Wendy's husband, Nate Shaffer, shared in a statement with Fox News Digital.

"She was the best wife, mother, and friend that anyone could ever hope for. Her love, kindness, and strength touched everyone she met. We will miss you more than words can express, Wendy Jo. I love you endlessly! Rest in peace, my love."

Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia announced that multiple victims were former students in the school system.

"Our hearts are heavy as we process the devastating news of last night’s tragic plane crash over the Potomac River involving an American Airlines flight and an Army helicopter. This unimaginable loss has deeply affected our community, and with great sorrow, we have learned that multiple victims were former LCPS students," the school district said in a release Thursday. "Many other Loudoun families have also been impacted, and we extend our deepest condolences to all those grieving in the wake of this tragedy."

Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia said in a statement on its website that three students and six parents in the district were killed in the crash. Two of those parents were current or former FCPS staff members.

Doug Zeghibe, the CEO of the Skating Club of Boston, said Thursday that six of its members died in the collision last night.

Zeghibe said 14 skaters were returning home from a national development camp in Wichita, Kansas and six of them were members of his organization.

"Our sport and this club have suffered a horrible loss with this tragedy," Zeghibe said. "Skating is a tight-knit community where parents and kids come together six or seven days a week to train and work together. Everyone is like family. We are devastated and completely at a loss for words."

Zeghibe identified skaters Jinna Han and Spencer Lane as two of the victims in the crash. Their mothers were also onboard, the Associated Press reported. Lane later posted a photo on his Instagram story with a view from inside the plane before it departed from Wichita.  

"Six is a horrific number for us, but we're fortunate and grateful it wasn't more than six," Zeghibe said. "This will have long-reaching impacts for our skating community.

Two of the members were coaches who were former world pair champions and two were teenagers. Mothers of the athletes died as well, he added.

The Kremlin said Thursday that Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who competed in multiple Olympic Games and medaled in multiple world championships, were among those aboard the American Airlines flight.

Fowl Plains hunting club in Great Bend, Kansas, wrote on Facebook that seven clients died in the crash.

"We’ve always said our clients are more than friends," the group wrote. "They’re family. Last night we lost 7 family members in the horrific plane crash. 7 family members we’ve had the privilege to hunt with the last few years."

The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA) shared on X that five of its members died in the crash.

"We are heartbroken to confirm the loss of a fifth UA Brother onboard American Airlines Flight 5342 last night. May they all rest in peace," the organization wrote in a post on X. 

This is a developing story.

Fox News' Greg Norman, Bill Melugin, and Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report. 

Highly combustible lithium-ion batteries used in electric and hybrid vehicles are complicating cleanup efforts in the Los Angeles neighborhoods ravaged by wildfire damage. 

Phase 1 of the federal cleanup is underway, as surveyors with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) work to remove and dispose of hazardous materials, including lithium-ion batteries found in charred vehicles and decimated homes. The EPA warned that batteries should be considered "extremely dangerous," even if they are believed to be intact, and "can spontaneously re-ignite, explode, and emit toxic gases and particulates even after the fire is out." 

The Palisades and Eaton fires aftermath is estimated to require the "largest lithium-ion battery pickup, cleanup, that’s ever happened in the history of the world," EPA incident commander Steve Calanog reportedly told local KNBC. He explained that removing lithium-ion batteries – even those that do not appear damaged – from fire wreckage requires "technical sophistication and care," as hazardous material crews find and deionize the batteries so they can be crushed or safely shipped for disposal. 

"We don’t know the long-term effects of all this exposure, and we haven't seen this on this large of a scale and this many electric vehicles," Los Angeles City Fire Capt. Adam VanGerpen told KNBC. "This is an unprecedented amount of electric vehicles with lithium-ion batteries in there."

LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES: LAWSUIT ALLEGES VIDEO SHOWS WHAT STARTED EATON FIRE

According to the California Energy Commission, more than 99,000 zero-emission vehicles were sold in Los Angeles County in 2024 alone, including battery electric, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell electric vehicles. 

The Tesla models Y, 3 and Cybertruck were the top three selling zero-emission models sold in Los Angeles County last year, according to the commission's online tally. 

Authorities are warning that residual heat poses danger for days, weeks and even months after the initial fires, potentially causing lithium-ion batteries to spontaneously combust. 

"With the lithium-ion batteries, even if they look like they are intact they could have damage on the inside, so they continue to off gas and the off-gas from these batteries can be toxic to your health," VanGerpen said.

Besides in electric and hybrid vehicles, lithium-ion batteries can be found in personal electronics, vaping devices, power tools, and home energy storage systems, which have become increasingly popular during California's power outages. 

LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES: CALIFORNIA CITIES VOW TO ‘SHUT DOWN’ EPA’S DUMPING SITE FOR ‘TOXIC’ WASTE

President Donald Trump toured the Palisades Fire burn area on Friday. His executive order issued that same day to provide water resources in California and improve disaster response will allow the EPA "to complete its hazardous materials mission responding to the Los Angeles, California Wildfires as soon as practical," the EPA said in a statement on Monday. "EPA’s work removing hazardous materials is Phase 1 of the federal cleanup response." 

"According to the EPA incident commander, there will be upward of 1,000 people working on Phase 1 cleanup by this weekend," the statement continued. "This work, conducted at no cost to residents, is a mandatory process to ensure the safety of residents and the workers who will – after the hazardous material is gone – conduct the Phase 2 debris removal in the burn footprints, and to prevent these materials from being released into the environment." 

Phase 2, which begins automatically once Phase 1 is complete, will involve debris removal and will be coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 

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"Under President Trump’s leadership, EPA is doing everything within our power to expedite cleanup of hazardous debris and to help provide Californians safer access to their property as soon as possible," EPA Acting Deputy Administrator Chad McIntosh said in a statement. "With President Trump’s Executive Order, he has authorized a whole of government response to the catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles – an effort that has never been seen before. EPA is working with local, state and federal partners in addition to the private sector to aid in California’s recovery."

An American figure skater’s social media post sparked concern about his whereabouts as it appeared he was on the plane that collided with a U.S. Army helicopter on Wednesday night.

Spencer Lane posted a photo on his Instagram while the American Airlines flight was on the runway at Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport. The plane appeared to be waiting to take off for Reagan International Airport near Washington, D.C.

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"ICT (to) DCA," the post on his Instagram Stories read.

Lane did not post anything else after that. Another post on his Instagram Stories showed him warming up with Kohaku Murai. He had also shared a collage of pictures with other team members who were in Wichita, Kansas.

LIVE UPDATES: MILITARY HELICOPTER COLLIDES WITH AIRCRAFT NEAR REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT

Later Thursday, Skating Club of Boston CEO Doug Zeghibe named Lane as one of those who were lost in the crash.

"Our sport and this Club have suffered a horrible loss with this tragedy," Zeghibe said in a statement posted to social media. "Skating is a tight-knit community where parents and kids come together 6 of 7 days a week to train and work together. Everyone is like family. Of the skaters, coaches and parents on the plane, we believe six were from The Skating Club of Boston. We are devastated and completely at a loss for words.

"These athletes, coaches, parents were returning from U.S. Figure Skating’s National Development Camp, following last week’s U.S. Championships in Wichita. This camp is for young competitive skaters of tomorrow with the promise to be a champion of tomorrow. The club sent 18 athletes to compete at the U.S. Championships. It sent 12 athletes to the National Development Camp."

U.S. Figure Skating said earlier Thursday that athletes, coaches and family members involved with its organization were on board the flight.

"U.S. Figure Skating can confirm that several members of our skating community were sadly aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter yesterday evening in Washington, D.C.," the organization said. "These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas

"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available."

Officials said Thursday they didn’t think there were any survivors.

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The deadly midair collision involving an airplane and a military helicopter on Wednesday night appears to have been caught on camera.

Footage shows a bright, fiery explosion as the two objects collide.

First responders were "switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation," D.C. Fire and EMS Department Chief John Donnelly said during a press conference on Thursday morning, noting that they do not believe there are any crash survivors.

He indicated 27 bodies had been recovered from the airplane, and one from the helicopter.

"A PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m. local time," the Federal Aviation Administration noted on Wednesday night. "PSA was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines. It departed from Wichita, Kansas. The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation."

RECORDINGS REVEAL MORE INFORMATION ON DC AIRCRAFT COLLISION

The chopper had been engaged in a "training mission" at the time of the collision, Ron McLendon II, Deputy Director, JTF-NCR/USAMDW Public Affairs noted.

"While performing a training mission a United States Army UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion, Davison Army Airfield, Fort Belvoir, Va., collided in midair with an American Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet Flight 5342 last night at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport," McLendon noted. "The FAA, NTSB and the United States Army will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation. We are working with local officials and will provide any additional information once it becomes available."

U.S. Figure Skating has indicated that members of its community were on the airplane.

"U.S. Figure Skating can confirm that several members of our skating community were sadly aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter yesterday evening in Washington, D.C. These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas," U.S. Figure Skating noted.

"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available," the statement added.

AMERICAN FIGURE SKATING MEMBERS, RUSSIAN OLYMPIANS ABOARD PLANE IN REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., noted that he had landed at the DCA airport on a flight from Houston's IAH airport shortly before the collision occurred.

"I landed at DCA this evening at 8:42pm, IAH—DCA, minutes before an in-flight collision over the airport. My thoughts are with all involved and their families. Hoping first responders find survivors," the congressman noted on Wednesday night.

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: TRUMP, LAWMAKERS REACT TO TRAGEDY AS OFFICIALS INVESTIGATE

President Donald Trump sounded off about the crash on Truth Social.

"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!" Trump declared in a post shared shortly after midnight.

"What a terrible night this has been. God bless you all!" he added in another post.

Fox News' Melissa Summers and James Levison contributed to this report

The Army Black Hawk helicopter that collided with a passenger jet coming in for a landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington Wednesday night had three soldiers on board, Fox News has learned. 

The three soldiers aboard the Black Hawk when it crashed have not been publicly identified, but the helicopter was not carrying any VIPs or senior officials, an Army official told Fox News. 

Fox News also confirmed newly sworn-in Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was not involved in the incident. 

Hegseth was at the White House shortly before the crash and is actively monitoring the situation. 

AMERICAN AIRLINES PLANE, ARMY HELICOPTER COLLIDE OUTSIDE REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT NEAR WASHINGTON DC

The helicopter had flown out of Davidson Air Base at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and crashed while performing a training mission, Army officials said. 

Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling also sits across the river from Reagan National Airport.

The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft. 

Modified versions have also been developed for the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The Black Hawk can carry up to 15 people, including two pilots, two crew chiefs and two rescue specialists. 

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m. 

American Airlines Flight 5342 had departed from Wichita, Kansas, and had 60 passengers and four crew members on board. 

Multiple fatalities have been reported, and no survivors are expected, as officials said they have moved from a rescue to a recovery operation.

Passengers on the flight included a group of figure skaters, their coaches and family members who were returning from a development camp that followed the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita.

"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts," U.S. Figure Skating said in a statement.

AMERICAN FIGURE SKATING MEMBERS, RUSSIAN OLYMPIANS ABOARD PLANE IN REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH

Two of those coaches were identified by the Kremlin as Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who won the pairs title at the 1994 world championships and competed twice in the Olympics. The Skating Club of Boston lists them as coaches and their son, Maxim Naumov, is a competitive figure skater for the U.S.

The crash occurred in some of the most tightly controlled and monitored airspace in the world, just over three miles south of the White House and the Capitol.

Audio from air traffic control at Reagan airport captured Flight 5342 being told to use Runway 33 until air traffic controllers realized something had happened and started telling other aircraft to land or divert.

"Everybody hold your positions on the field right now," air traffic control said. "Fire command. The accident happened in the river. Both the helicopter and the plane crashed in the river."

"It was probably out in the middle of the river. I just saw a fireball, and then it was just gone," an air traffic controller said. "I haven't seen anything since they hit the river. But it was a CRJ and a helicopter that hit." 

PSA Airlines is a subsidiary of American Airlines, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating, and the NTSB is leading the probe. 

The route of the flight that crashed is fairly new. Direct flights from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport to Ronald Reagan National Airport started Jan. 8, 2024, Jesse Romo, Wichita Airport Authority Director of Airports, said.

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"I know that flight. I've flown it several times myself," Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas, R-Kansas, told the Associated Press. He said he expected that many people in Wichita would know people who were on the flight.

"This is a very personal circumstance," he said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

An American figure skater was barred from the American Airlines flight that collided with a U.S. Army helicopter near Reagan International Airport on Thursday night.

Jon Maravilla told Russia’s Sputnik he was not allowed on the flight because his dog was too big to board. He said he ultimately decided to make the 14-hour drive back from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C. He also mentioned the issue on his personal Instagram account.

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"Not allowed past gate to board flight," he wrote in one post. "Get me tf out of Kansas please."

He added, "14 hour journey begins."

Maravilla told RIA Novosti that there were "about 14 figure skaters on the plane, not counting their parents and coaches," according to The New York Times.

LIVE UPDATES: MILITARY HELICOPTER COLLIDES WITH AIRCRAFT NEAR REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT

"Such a tragedy," he added.

At least 60 people were aboard the American Airlines flight.

U.S. Figure Skating did not confirm the number of members of its organization on the plane.

"U.S. Figure Skating can confirm that several members of our skating community were sadly aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter yesterday evening in Washington, D.C.," the organization said. "These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas.

"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available."

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President Donald Trump suggested the horrific collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Reagan National Airport outside Washington, D.C., late Wednesday could have been prevented. 

"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time," Trump posted on Truth Social early Thursday morning. 

"It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!"

LIVE UPDATES: AMERICAN AIRLINES PLANE, MILITARY HELICOPTER COLLIDE NEAR REGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT IN WASHINGTON, DC

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky UH-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport (DCA) around 9 p.m. local time. The jet was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, and it departed from Wichita, Kansas. 

There were 60 passengers and four crew members aboard the American Airlines flight and three Army soldiers on the Black Hawk. Those aboard the plane included "several members" of U.S. Figure Skating, including athletes, coaches and family members who had just attended the U.S. Figure Skating Championships held in Wichita from Jan. 20 to Jan. 26. 

The exact number of injuries and fatalities has not yet been confirmed. 

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: MILITARY BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER COLLIDES MIDAIR WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES JET

At the time of the crash, Reagan National Airport reported clear skies, visibility of 10 miles and winds sustained out of the northwest at 16 mph, gusting to 26 mph. The temperature was 50 degrees.

Nearly 300 first responders deployed to the freezing Potomac River, where the wreckage of the plane lies partially submerged for search and rescue operations, but hope of finding survivors is fading. The temperature in the river was 37 degrees on Wednesday night. 

AMERICAN FIGURE SKATING MEMBERS, RUSSIAN OLYMPIANS ABOARD PLANE IN REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH

Vice President JD Vance took to social media Wednesday night to address the collision and urge prayer for those involved. 

"Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We're monitoring the situation, but for now let's hope for the best," he said. 

The National Transportation Safety Board, FAA and the U.S. Army have each launched probes into the deadly collision. 

Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and other officials will hold a press conference at 7:30 a.m. ET Thursday at Reagan National Airport. 

"Tonight, as our first responders continue their efforts, we are sending our love and prayers to the families, loved ones, and communities who are experiencing loss during this terrible tragedy," she wrote on X. 

The airport remains closed until 11 a.m. this morning following the nearby collision last night between an American Airlines passenger jet and an Army helicopter. 

"What a terrible night this has been," Trump said. "God bless you all!"

A massive search and rescue effort was underway after an Army Black Hawk helicopter collided midair with an American Airlines jet at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, on Wednesday evening.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport (DCA) around 9 p.m. local time. 

PSA was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, and it departed from Wichita, Kansas. There was no immediate word on casualties or the cause of the collision.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News' Sean Hannity that President Donald Trump is aware of the situation, calling it tragic. Trump later released a statement, writing: "I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God Bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise."

PLANE VEERS OFF AIRPORT RUNWAY IN SOUTH KOREA AND CRASHES, KILLING 179: REPORTS

According to American Airlines, there were 60 passengers and four crew members on board the CRJ-700 aircraft.

"Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft," the airline said in a statement. "We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts."

There were three soldiers on the helicopter at the time of the crash, according to an Army official.

"We can confirm that the aircraft involved in tonight’s incident was an Army UH-60 helicopter from Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion, out of Davison Army Airfield, Fort Belvoir during a training flight," the Army confirmed to Fox News Digital. "We are working with local officials and will provide additional information once it becomes available."

KAZAKHSTAN PLANE CRASH SURVIVORS SAY THEY HEARD BANGS BEFORE AIRCRAFT WENT DOWN; PUTIN ISSUES STATEMENT

The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter, which can carry 15 people, including two pilots, two crew chiefs and two rescue specialists.

Jack Potter, the president and CEO of Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, said during a press conference that flights will resume from the airport at 11 a.m.

At the time of the crash, Reagan National Airport reported clear skies, visibility of 10 miles and winds sustained out of the northwest at 16 mph, gusting to 26 mph. The temperature at the time was 50 degrees.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he was on the scene and closely monitoring the situation. He was just sworn in earlier in the day on Wednesday.

He later posted that he had directed the U.S. Department of Transportation and FAA to provide full support to the National Transportation and Safety Board, as well as all responding agencies and authorities.

"I have spoken with Washington D.C. Mayor Bowser, Virginia Governor Youngkin, Kansas Governor Kelly, and NTSB Chair Homendy to offer our agency’s complete assistance. Thank you to all first responders who are on the scene and conducting the search and rescue operations," Duffy wrote on X.

The FBI said it's Washington Field Office's National Capital Response Squad was responding to "an aviation incident at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport" in support of law enforcement and public safety partners.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said every available U.S. Coast Guard resource is being deployed to assist with search and rescue efforts. She also said her department is actively monitoring the situation and stands ready to support local responders.

The DC Fire and EMS Department confirmed that fireboats were on the scene.

Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly, Sr., said there are currently about 300 responders working at the scene.

AIRLINER'S FINAL 4 MINUTES OF RECORDINGS ARE MISSING AFTER CRASH THAT KILLED 179: INVESTIGATORS

A few minutes before landing, air traffic controllers asked the arriving commercial jet if it could land on the shorter Runway 33 at Reagan National and the pilots said they were able. Controllers then cleared the plane to land on Runway 33. Flight tracking sites showed the plane adjusting its approach to the new runway.

In audio from the air traffic control tower around the time of the crash, a controller is heard asking the helicopter, "PAT25 do you have the CRJ in sight," in reference to the passenger aircraft.

Fox News has learned that the helicopter did respond, but on a different frequency, a frequency for helicopters.

"Tower did you see that?" another pilot is heard calling seconds after the apparent collision.

One video posted to X and captured from the webcam at the Kennedy Center caught what appeared to be the midair explosion near the Potomac River.

Trump posted further reaction to the crash on Truth Social.

"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport," he wrote. "The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!"

Vice President JD Vance took to X to call on people to stay positive as the tragedy unfolded.

"Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening," Vance wrote. "We're monitoring the situation, but for now let's hope for the best."

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom released a video statement early Thursday morning saying the airline's "go team" was heading to the area, and he would also be on his way to the scene shortly. He also said the airline set up a special helpline for friends and family to call. That number is 1-800-679-8215.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelley said she was aware of the incident.

"I am aware that a plane inbound from Wichita was involved in a crash at Reagan National Airport," she said. "I am actively in contact with authorities. My thoughts go out to those involved. I will share more information as it becomes available."

Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., also posted on X about the crash.

"My prayer is that God wraps his arms around each and every victim and that he continues to be with their families.  There are no words that can make telling this story any easier," he wrote. "I ask the world to join me in praying for Kansas this evening, the first responders, rescue crews, and all those involved in this horrific accident. I have been in contact with local and national authorities asking for answers and will continue to demand more information on how this unfolded."

The collision marked the first time there has been a crash involving a U.S. commercial flight since 2009.

Colgan Air Flight 3407, a flight from Newark, New Jersey, to Buffalo, New York, stalled and crashed during landing approach near Buffalo Niagara International Airport on Feb. 12, 2009. The plane slammed into a house.

All 45 passengers and four crew members were killed.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority for more information. The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Lawmakers across the U.S. expressed sympathy and grief after a passenger plane collided with a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport in the Washington, D.C. area on Wednesday night.

A PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet operating as an American Airlines flight collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter approaching Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, around 9 p.m. local time, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The flight left Wichita, Kansas, earlier that day.

The passenger flight was carrying 60 people, but officials have not confirmed the exact number of injuries and fatalities. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who started work on Monday, said that he was aware of the incident in a post on X.

"DoD actively monitoring," Hegseth's tweet read. "Poised to assist if needed. Prayers for all involved."

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: MILITARY BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER COLLIDES MIDAIR WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES JET

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that he was at the FAA building and investigating the incident. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also shared a message from President Donald Trump on Wednesday night.

"I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport," the statement read. "May God Bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise."

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., expressed sorrow after hearing of the crash.

"Our prayers are with all families impacted by the tragic plane crash that just took place here in DC," Luna's post read. "Incredibly heartbreaking."

Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears said that she was keeping all those impacted in her prayers.

FEDERAL JUDGE PAUSES TRUMP ADMIN'S TEMPORARY FEDERAL GRANTS, LOANS FREEZE

"My office is following the breaking and tragic news of a collision at @Reagan_Airport," the lieutenant governor wrote. "We pray for the victims, first rescuers, and all those impacted."

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem wrote on X that she was "deploying every available US Coast Guard resource for search and rescue efforts in this horrific incident at DCA."

"We are actively monitoring the situation & stand ready to support local responders," the former South Dakota governor wrote. "Praying for the victims and first responders."

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, the FAA and American Airlines for more information.

Authorities are actively investigating the crash.

Fox News Digital's Greg Wehner and Louis Casiano contributed to this report.

President Donald Trump put the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under review on Sunday after signing an executive order aimed at "drastically" improving the agency’s efficacy, priorities and competence.

Trump’s executive order establishes the FEMA Review Council, which will be composed of no more than 20 members and co-chaired by the secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense.

The council is being formed after FEMA's response to Hurricane Helene and other recent disasters showed the need to improve "efficacy, priorities, and competence, including evaluating whether FEMA’s bureaucracy in disaster response" hinders its ability to respond successfully.

"Despite obligating nearly $30 billion in disaster aid each of the past three years, FEMA has managed to leave vulnerable Americans without the resources or support they need when they need it most," the executive order reads. "There are serious concerns of political bias in FEMA. Indeed, at least one former FEMA responder has stated that FEMA managers directed her to avoid homes of individuals supporting the campaign of Donald J. Trump for President."

‘FEMA IS NOT GOOD:’ TRUMP ANNOUNCES AGENCY OVERHAUL DURING VISIT TO NORTH CAROLINA

Trump also said FEMA has lost mission focus, diverting limited resources and staff to support missions outside its scope and authority. The president particularly highlighted that FEMA has spent over a billion dollars welcoming illegal immigrants.

"Americans deserve an immediate, effective, and impartial response to and recovery from disasters," the order continued. "FEMA therefore requires a full-scale review, by individuals highly experienced at effective disaster response and recovery, who shall recommend to the President improvements or structural changes to promote the national interest and enable national resilience."

TRUMP SAYS NEWSOM IS TO 'BLAME' FOR 'APOCALYPTIC' WILDFIRES

Trump announced Friday that he plans to overhaul FEMA as North Carolina is still recovering from Hurricane Helene more than 120 days after the storm devastated the state.

"I'll also be signing an executive order to begin the process of fundamentally reforming and overhauling FEMA, or maybe getting rid of FEMA," Trump told reporters in North Carolina on Friday morning. "I think, frankly, FEMA is not good."

FAST-MOVING HUGHES FIRE ERUPTS IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY AS CALIFORNIA OFFICIALS ORDER EVACUATIONS

Trump promised his administration would step in and assist North Carolina to fix the damage quickly, vowing to "do a good job" for the state. 

The president also said he would like to see the states assume more responsibility when disaster strikes, arguing those familiar with the state are better equipped to provide disaster response and relief. 

So far, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers claim that only half of the debris recovery from Hurricane Helene is complete. Additionally, thousands of families in North Carolina remain in hotels that FEMA is footing the bill for through its Transitional Housing Assistance program. 

Fox News Digital’s Diana Stancy contributed to this report.

North Carolina residents Curtis A. Wright and Amber Wright, who were heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene, met with President Donald Trump during his visit to their state on Friday.

Curtis A. Wright argued in an appearance on "The Will Cain Show," that he thinks that North Carolinians have "been ignored" in the wake of the hurricane and said that Trump's visit was a "big relief."

"It was a lot of relief. You know, people keep saying, how are you guys doing in Asheville? And, you know, we feel like he's [sic] been forgotten. And I don't think we've been forgotten. I think we've been ignored. So for him [Trump] to come and see us today, that was a big relief. We'd previously had JD Vance come out to our house with Samaritan's Purse and some of the Grahams. And, you know, he told us that they were coming, and we were glad to see them."

‘FEMA IS NOT GOOD’: TRUMP ANNOUNCES AGENCY OVERHAUL DURING VISIT TO NORTH CAROLINA

Trump visited western North Carolina on Friday to meet with residents still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. 

Amber Wright was asked to describe how they have been living in the wake of the hurricane and said that it has been a "true nightmare."

"We just live day by day, one day at a time, trying to clean up, trying to see what our next steps are, if we're going to be able to rebuild, if we're not going to be able to rebuild. Waiting on, you know, insurance or whatever it may be. So it's been a struggle. It really has," she told host Will Cain.

North Carolina was struck by Hurricane Helene in late September and caused over 100 deaths in the state, as well as tens of millions in damage. The catastrophic flooding caused by the hurricane was described by FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell as "historic."

FEMA has faced criticism for its relief efforts post-hurricane. During his visit Friday, Trump said, "FEMA has really let us down. Let the country down. And I don't know if that's Biden's fault or whose fault it is, but we're going to take over." 

Curtis and Amber Wright said that they had lost "everything they own" in the storm, including all of their farm equipment, and described what they would need in order to rebuild.

"What we're needing right now is a fair evaluation from our insurance company in a timely manner to pay out," Curtis Wright said. "Samaritan's Purse has been a blessing to us,They are willing to fill all the gaps that FEMA and our insurance company has not. We actually have the ability to build on higher ground on another piece of property that connects to our current farm. And that's what our hopes are, to get fair payout and just to tear down the home that we have because it's beyond 50% repairable and then start over."

While in North Carolina, Trump told reporters that he plans to sign an executive order "fundamentally reforming and overhauling FEMA, or maybe getting rid of FEMA," Trump told reporters, saying, "I think, frankly, FEMA is not good."

He also promised that his administration would step in to assist the clean-up efforts. "We're going to fix it, and we're going to fix it as fast as you can," Trump said.

Only half of the debris recovery from Hurricane Helene is complete, according to the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, and thousands of families remain in hotels.  

Fox News' Diana Stacy contributed to this report.

Defiant and armed Los Angeles homeowners in the scorched Altadena community have taken to the streets to defend the homes that remain standing — even if those streets have been blocked off by a police line amid evacuation orders and raging wildfires, residents say.

Authorities have arrested at least a dozen individuals in connection with looting and arson, and prosecutors in Los Angeles and neighboring Orange County have asked the governor to order stiffer penalties for looters.

Ignoring evacuation orders, Mike Leroy and Billy Theodorakopoulos told Fox News Digital they were protecting their neighborhood against looters.

ESSENTIAL PHONE NUMBERS FOR LOS ANGELES-AREA RESIDENTS AND HOW YOU CAN HELP THEM

At first, they stayed behind to try and protect their homes with garden hoses, keeping their rooftops and yards as wet as they could and directly battling a garage fire that reached a car's gas tank. Firefighters joined them briefly, helping contain the flames, but then moved on to other emergencies.

They decided to stay and ward off looters.

2 MORE FIREBUGS CHARGED AS LA'S NEW TOUGH-ON-CRIME DA HEATS UP FIGHT AGAINST LOOTERS AND ARSONISTS

"We had one incident, early on," Leroy said. "But nothing afterwards. We've been seeing a lot of patrol, especially the past few nights."

He said they were taking a few hours of sleep between patrols and remaining on the lookout.

Theodorakopoulos' wife, Maggie, said she has taken to calling Altadena by a new name amid the chaos.

"Now I've renamed it ‘Texadena,’ since we're all walking around with our guns and stuff," she joked. 

Without power, the holdouts set up a makeshift camp with a solar-powered shower.

CALIFORNIA FIREBUG ARREST CAUGHT ON VIDEO AS POLICE WARN OF ARSONISTS

The pair said they were hoping more of their neighbors would join them.

"We need the neighbors to come home so that we can take a break," Theodorakopoulos said. "And No. 2, we need more vigilance… There's only six of us in a three-block radius to cover all this, and there's a lot more territory here."

Earlier this week, a local lawyer named Aaron Lubeley told The Wall Street Journal his well-off neighborhood suddenly felt grittier as friends from outside the perimeter dropped off supplies to holdouts like himself who were defying evacuation orders.

"We do feel like we’re in the Wild West," he told the paper. 

The fires have killed at least 24 people in just over a week. Authorities say they expect to discover more fatalities.

Compounding the issue are looters and arsonists. 

Evacuation orders are mandatory, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, while evacuation warnings are advisory. Authorities are urging residents to be packed and ready to move with their pets and important papers.

Fox News' Max Bacall contributed to this report.