A father has opened up about the tragic moment he began to fear for his wife and son, who were on an American Airlines flight that tragically crashed. This heartbreaking incident involved American Airlines flight 5342 and a US Army helicopter over the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington DC.
The ill-fated collision on a Wednesday night took the lives of 64 people on the passenger aircraft, alongside the three crew members of the helicopter. Among the passengers were a mother, Yulia Kay, and her son, Ilya Kay, who was affectionately known as Sean. The family was on their way back from an ice dancing camp in Kansas.
In an emotional interview, the husband and father, Vitali Kay, recounted how he first sensed something was wrong when he couldn’t get Yulia on the phone. Initially, he thought she might have forgotten to turn off airplane mode. His growing concern turned into dread once he matched the flight number of the crash to the one his family was on.
Rushing to the airport from his home in Bear, Delaware, he pressed for information amid roads blocked by security measures. “Everyone was sincerely worried, deeply feeling for you,” he shared about the atmosphere among those gathered at the airport.
The University of Delaware confirmed the death of Yulia and Sean’s coach, Sasha Kirsanov, in a somber announcement, recognizing the loss of their Former University of Delaware Figure Skating Club coach.
The devastated community has since rallied support for Vitali and his family, with a GoFundMe campaign established to assist them, especially focusing on the needs of their other children: a daughter aged 14, and two younger sons aged seven and ten.
American Airlines has also expressed their heartfelt condolences and commitment to supporting those impacted. They released a statement affirming their collaboration with emergency response efforts, hoping to offer some solace amidst the chaos.
The airline’s message mentioned, “Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft. We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts.” They also provided a helpline for those anxious about their loved ones involved in the incident.
“If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215,” the airline advised.
For those coping with loss, support is available through various organizations. Vitali, amid his grief, holds onto the cherished memories of his family, while the community surrounds him with love and support during this unimaginable time.
Yulia and Ilya’s story is a testament to the unpredictability of life and highlights the deep bonds of family and community in times of inconceivable loss.
