Captain Jonathan Campos, 34, and First Officer Samuel Lilley have been identified as the pilots of the American Eagle jet involved in the devastating mid-air collision over Washington, D.C.
The flight attendants onboard during the tragic incident have also been named as Ian Epstein and Danasia Elder. DailyMail.com has confirmed.
First Officer Samuel Lilley, 29, was not only deeply passionate about his aviation career but was also on the verge of a major milestone—his promotion to captain. According to his father, Timothy, Lilley was just months away from achieving this goal. He was also newly engaged.
Doomed Flight 5342, which departed from Wichita, Kansas, with 60 passengers onboard, met a catastrophic fate when it collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter just 400 feet above the Potomac River.
Timothy, Lilley said “I saw the crash on the news. I didn’t think there was any way it was my son,” he recalled. “But then I watched long enough to figure out it was my son’s airline, and I kind of knew his schedule.” Now in Washington, he faces the devastating reality of his loss, mourning a son who was just months away from becoming a captain. “This is undoubtedly the worst day of my life.”
Another confirmed loss was Ian Epstein
Ian Epstein, a former Camping World salesman who later pursued a career as a flight attendant, was widely known for his ability to brighten the lives of those around him. Friends, colleagues, and passengers alike remember him for his infectious energy and warm personality.
“Ian Epstein made everyone smile,” those who knew him fondly recalled.
Before transitioning into the aviation industry, Epstein built a strong reputation at Camping World in Concord, where former coworkers praised him as one of the company’s top salesmen. His ability to connect with people and bring joy to any situation left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Jonathan Campos
Jonathan Campos, originally from New York, spent his formative years in Florida, where he nurtured a deep passion for aviation.
His journey in the field took off at the Epic Flight Academy, where he earned his certification as a flight instructor in 2017. Just a year later, he achieved his dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot, according to academy records.
His uncle, Hector Campos, shared how dedicated Jonathan was to his profession, stating, “He loved it.” The family is now grappling with the devastating news, with Hector expressing their collective shock, saying, “We just confirmed the news. We are in complete shock.”
Danasia Elder
Danasia Elder a flight attendant on the tragic flight from Wichita to Washington, D.C., is remembered as a devoted wife and mother. She leaves behind her husband and two children, who are now mourning an unimaginable loss.
Her brother-in-law reflected on the impact she had on those around her, describing her as “full of life.” He emphasized her deep love for God, her children, and her passion for travel—three things that defined who she was. Her warmth and vibrant spirit touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy of love and faith.
Wendy Shaffer
Wendy Shaffer, a devoted mother of two young children, tragically lost her life in the crash. Her passing was confirmed through a GoFundMe page created by friends, which highlighted the heartbreaking reality that she leaves behind her husband and two little ones, just 3 and 1 years old.
The tragic crash has deeply affected the families and communities of those involved, as they grieve their loved ones and honor the lives they lived.
The incident, which took place shortly after 8:45 p.m., stands as the deadliest commercial plane crash in the United States in more than 15 years. Reports indicate that both aircraft were following their usual flight paths within a busy air corridor under clear night skies.
