The final member of the three-person crew aboard the Black Hawk helicopter that tragically crashed into an American Airlines passenger jet—resulting in the death of 67 people—has been identified.
U.S. Army Confirms Captain Rebecca Lobach as Pilot
The U.S. Army has identified Captain Rebecca Lobach, the 28-year-old pilot of the ill-fated helicopter, as the final crew member involved in the crash. While the Army initially refrained from publicly naming Lobach at the request of her family, officials reversed course on Saturday when her loved ones released their own statement regarding her passing.
Lobach’s Legacy and Military Service
In their statement, Lobach’s family celebrated her dedication and accomplishments in the military, emphasizing the hard work and determination that defined her career.
In addition to her service as a Black Hawk pilot, the family noted that Lobach had played a role in White House events, assisting in organizing engagements for the President and First Lady, Joe and Jill Biden. This revelation highlights her distinguished career beyond aviation, showcasing her service at the highest levels of government.
Trump Weighs In, Blaming Pilot for Crash
The mention of Lobach’s qualifications carries particular weight amid recent political controversy. Former President Donald Trump made headlines earlier this week when he publicly blamed the crash on the pilot, pointing to concerns about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in the military. His remarks sparked intense debate, with critics calling them premature and inappropriate given that the investigation remains ongoing.
Other Crew Members Previously Identified
Earlier this week, the two other crew members aboard the Black Hawk were named:
- Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves
- Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara
Ongoing Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are actively investigating the cause of the crash. At this time, no official determination has been made regarding the circumstances leading up to the fatal collision.
As the nation mourns the 67 lives lost, officials continue to work diligently to uncover the truth behind this devastating accident.
