August 27, 2025

Tragic Midair Collision Claims Lives of Three Soldiers

News Summary

A midair collision involving a Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Reagan National Airport has resulted in the tragic loss of three soldiers, including U.S. Army Captain Rebecca M. Lobach. The incident resulted in a total of 67 fatalities, causing deep sorrow in the military community. Captain Lobach, recognized for her leadership and dedication, was a rising star in the Army and had garnered accolades for her service. Investigations are ongoing to determine the causes of the collision amidst discussions on safety and crew dynamics.

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Army Captain Rebecca M. Lobach, age 28, was among three soldiers who tragically lost their lives in a midair collision involving a Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Reagan National Airport. This devastating incident has been confirmed to have resulted in a total of 67 fatalities, including 60 passengers and four crew members aboard the commercial aircraft.

Captain Lobach, a resident of Durham, North Carolina, had a commendable career as an Army aviation officer since July 2019. Her outstanding service earned her the Army Commendation Medal and an Achievement Medal after she graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a distinguished military graduate. She consistently ranked in the top 20% of ROTC cadets across the nation.

Last month, Lobach demonstrated her leadership and professionalism by escorting fashion designer Ralph Lauren during his Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony at the White House. With over 450 flight hours, she achieved certification as a pilot-in-command after rigorous assessments conducted by senior pilots in her battalion, showcasing her dedication to her craft.

Other Victims of the Incident

The Army has also identified two other soldiers involved in the collision: Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia, who served as the crew chief, and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland, who was a pilot. The loss is deeply felt across the military community, as all three soldiers were respected members of their units.

Remembering Captain Lobach

Friends and fellow soldiers have described Captain Lobach as “brilliant and fearless,” acknowledging her meticulous nature and mentorship qualities that inspired others in pursuit of aviation careers. Additionally, she was a certified Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) victim advocate and harbored aspirations to become a physician following her military tenure.

In a poignant statement, Lobach’s family conveyed their profound sorrow over her passing, illustrating her as kind, brilliant, and ambitious. The news of her untimely death has created a ripple effect of grief among her peers who regarded her as a beacon of excellence within their ranks. She was known for her commitment to maintaining peak physical fitness, having previously played Division III basketball at the University of the South.

Speculations and Investigations

The circumstances surrounding the crash are under investigation. President Donald Trump suggested that the collision may have been caused by the helicopter flying at an excessive altitude. This commentary has triggered discussions and speculations regarding the implications of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices on crew composition, although no evidence currently supports this assertion.

Colleagues underscored that Captain Lobach’s ascendance in the military was attributed to her expertise, hard work, and commitment to her responsibilities. She was recognized as an individual who exerted significant pressure on herself to excel in her role, asserting the high standards she set for herself and her peers.

Impact on the Community

Captain Lobach’s death has resonated deeply within her community and the broader military fraternity, where many remember her as a rising star and an inspiration. Her legacy, characterized by her dedication, bright spirit, and impactful mentorship, endures in the hearts of those she influenced both personally and professionally.

The investigation into the tragic collision continues as authorities seek to uncover additional details regarding the incident, aiming to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The military community unites in mourning the profound loss of its members—Capt. Rebecca Lobach, Staff Sgt. Ryan O’Hara, and Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves—whose contributions to service will not be forgotten.

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Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER

AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.

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