A father faced the unimaginable as his worst fears unfolded before him in a tragic series of events no one could have foreseen.
On the night of January 29, a catastrophic mid-air collision between a commercial airplane and a military helicopter took the lives of 64 individuals, including 12-year-old Brielle Beyer and her mother, Justyna.
What was supposed to be a joyful reunion at the airport turned into a moment of deep despair, as the family’s life changed forever. This emotional tragedy, involving a young girl who had already battled and survived cancer, has shaken the hearts of all who hear it, leaving a lasting impact on the entire community.
Andy Beyer, who lost both his daughter and wife in the accident, has spoken publicly about the chilling moment he sensed something was wrong. That night, a PSA Airlines flight—a regional affiliate of American Airlines—was preparing to land at Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., when it collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The commercial aircraft, designated as Flight 5342, was carrying 60 passengers along with four crew members. Onboard the helicopter were three military personnel.
The impact sent both aircraft crashing into the icy depths of the Potomac River. Rescue operations were launched immediately, but authorities have expressed fears that all 67 people involved—those on the plane and in the helicopter—did not survive.
Among the lives lost were Justyna Beyer, aged 42, and her 12-year-old daughter Brielle. The two were returning to Washington, D.C., after attending a U.S. Figure Skating National Development Camp. Brielle, who had previously won a battle with cancer, had been pursuing her passion for figure skating and was filled with pride over her recent achievements.
Andy Beyer was waiting at the airport with their 6-year-old son, eagerly anticipating the arrival of his wife and daughter. As he made his way to the terminal, he began to grow concerned when he noticed the plane was delayed.
His unease intensified when his texts to Justyna went unanswered. The situation turned even more alarming as he approached the airport and saw flashing emergency lights and a heavy presence of first responders.
He received the devastating news through a close friend working as an air traffic controller. “I didn’t hold out much hope at that point,” Andy said, emotionally recalling the moment. “We cried together right there. After that, we spent hours in a family waiting room before receiving any official confirmation.”
Brielle, who had endured so much in her young life, was remembered fondly by her father. In an interview with ABC News, he spoke of her determination and spirit. “She fought through everything she faced,” he said. “She gave her all, whether in life or on the ice. She was incredibly proud of the progress she had made in skating. Making that team was one of her dreams, and she did it.”
Following the accident, a GoFundMe campaign was organized by a close friend of the family to help support the grieving Beyers. The campaign message captured the emotional weight of the tragedy: “With broken hearts, we announce the loss of 12-year-old Brielle and her mother, Justyna, in the recent aviation accident near Washington, D.C. Their passing has left a void that cannot be filled, and we are turning to our community for support during this time of profound sorrow.”
The community has been deeply affected by the incident, mourning the loss of two beloved individuals while offering their love and condolences to the surviving family.
Conclusion
The heartbreaking deaths of Justyna and Brielle Beyer have left an indelible mark on all who knew them. As the Beyer family tries to find their way through overwhelming grief, they’ve been surrounded by compassion from friends, neighbors, and even strangers. Brielle, a brave and resilient girl who overcame cancer and was pursuing her dream of becoming a figure skater, has left behind a legacy of strength, hope, and joy. Justyna, a devoted mother and source of strength for her family, is equally mourned. While recovery and answers are still unfolding, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how fragile life is—and how the bonds of love and family endure even the darkest of times.