Howard University is mourning the tragic loss of a highly esteemed professor, Kiah Duggins. The law educator was among the 60 passengers on board the American Eagle jet that tragically collided with an Army helicopter. This catastrophic incident resulted in the deaths of four crew members aboard the aircraft, while the helicopter was carrying three individuals. Unfortunately, officials have reported no survivors from the devastating crash that occurred on Wednesday night. Within just 24 hours, the focus of the mission shifted from rescue operations to recovery efforts as the grim reality set in.

Investigators are actively working to uncover the circumstances surrounding the crash, particularly why the helicopter was in the flight path of the jet, especially considering the experienced pilots at the helm. Recent statements from President Trump have sparked controversy as he suggested that the Biden administration’s emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives may have contributed to this tragic event. Such claims have fueled public debate and raised questions about aviation safety protocols.

RELATED: Trump Attributes “No Survivors” in Jet & Helicopter Crash to DEI Initiatives and Biden Administration

Commemorating the Legacy of Professor Kiah Duggins from Howard University

While the identities of all the deceased individuals have yet to be disclosed, Howard University has confirmed that Kiah Duggins was on Flight 5342, which ultimately crashed into the Potomac River. As of now, it remains uncertain whether her body has been recovered from the wreckage, adding to the heartbreak experienced by her family, friends, and students.

?It is with profound sadness that the Howard University community and the Howard University School of Law have learned of the passing of Professor Kiah Duggins, who was among those lost in the mid-air plane collision at Reagan National Airport. We kindly ask for privacy and respect for Professor Duggins? family, students, and colleagues during this extremely difficult time,? stated HU President Ben Vinson III in a heartfelt message on X.

In an in-depth report, Fox 5 DC highlighted that Professor Duggins had a rich history of advocating for justice, having worked with prominent organizations such as the Civil Rights Corps and the ACLU of Northern California. Her impressive body of work primarily centered around critical issues such as the prison industrial complex, unconstitutional policing practices, bail reform, and the broader legal system, reflecting her commitment to social justice and equality.

As of the latest updates from CNN, recovery crews have discovered a total of 41 bodies, with 28 of them already identified. Recently, a man shared heartbreaking text messages exchanged with his wife just 20 minutes before the scheduled landing of the passenger jet, expressing his desperate hope for her safe recovery.

On Thursday, the identities of both American Eagle pilots involved in the crash were made public. The father of the second-in-command, Sam Lilley, spoke candidly about the emotional toll of losing his son, revealing the sleepless nights and profound grief he has been experiencing as he comes to terms with this heartbreaking reality.

RELATED: Heartfelt Prayers as Father Speaks Out After Son Identified as American Eagle Pilot in D.C. Crash