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Casey Crafton, a devoted youth soccer coach and father of three, was one of the 67 people killed in the tragic midair collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter on January 29, 2025, over the Potomac River, according to People magazine. The town of Connecticut, along with Governor Ned Lamont, is mourning Crafton's demise.
CNN reports that at least 14 individuals are still missing and that recovery attempts have been halted for the evening. There were no survivors after the American Airlines aircraft plunged into the Potomac River. The flight, which departed from Wichita, Kansas, carried sixty four passengers while three soldiers were on board the military helicopter.
Known for his strong ties to the community, Casey Crafton was travelling to Washington, D.C., when the accident happened. According to the officials, there are no survivors. Those who knew Crafton have been deeply affected by his passing, and state representatives, sports leagues, and local authorities have paid respect to his legacy.
Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut said in a statement:
“Salem has lost a dedicated father, husband, and community member. My heart goes out to the Crafton-Gadbois family after this unimaginable tragedy. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Governor posted on X:
My heart goes out to the Crafton-Gadbois family after the tragic loss of Casey Crafton in yesterday’s plane crash. Salem has lost a dedicated father, husband, and community member. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
More about Casey Crafton
Casey Crafton had strong ties to Tennessee before moving to Connecticut. He attended Memphis' Central Baptist School and was originally from Bartlett. He then attended Bob Jones University, from which he graduated in 2008 with a degree in Aviation and Airway Management, according to NBC Conneticut.
After graduation, he established himself as a manager and coordinator of technical services at Guradian Jet, LLC, based in Hartford, Conneticut. His school, university, and colleagues have all regretted his sudden passing.
Casey Crafton was a devoted father to three boys and a loving husband to wife, Rachel. He was also a well-respected member of the Salem community. He was an important member of Salem Little League, where he was instrumental in coaching young players, and a coach for the Montville Youth Soccer Club.
The Salem Little League expressed their sorrow in a statement:
“Our small town is heartbroken by a devastating tragedy involving one of our beloved Little League members. The Crafton family, deeply involved in all things Salem, has suffered an unimaginable loss. With heavy hearts, we share the news that Casey Crafton tragically passed away in the horrific airline crash in Washington, D.C. Please keep his family close to your hearts and in your prayers during this difficult time.”
Following this, the Montville Youth Soccer Club also expressed grief by calling Casey Crafton a
“Valued volunteer who helped enrich the lives of all those he came in contact with.”
Many described him as a mentor, leader, and role model because of his unwavering commitment to the sport and the children he coached.
State Senator Martha Marx sent her sympathies, highlighting the profound effect that Casey Crafton's death had on Salem.
"The airline tragedy in Washington, D.C., last night has deeply affected our Salem community. Casey was a beloved member of our town — a husband, a father, a coach, and a friend. My heart goes out to the Crafton-Gadbois family during this unimaginable time. I ask our community to keep them in your prayers as they navigate this profound loss.”
Support for the Crafton family has been pouring in from everywhere since the tragedy. To assist Rachel Crafton and her three children in navigating the challenges ahead, a campaign has been started. Till date, the campaign has raised over $45,000 of its $200,000 goal, reports People magazine.
NTSB Recovers Black Boxes as Investigation Continues
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Meanwhile, an inquiry into the crash has been iniated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as reported by CNN. The agency verified the recovery of the voice recorders and flight data, which are also known as black boxes. The preliminary report is anticipated in around 30 days.
The military pilots on board the Black Hawk and the pilots of the American Airlines Flight 5342 were experienced in navigating the intricate airspace around Washington, D.C., according to experts. It is too soon to speculate on the reason of the disaster, according to the chairman of the country's air traffic controllers union.
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