Family Files Millions in Legal Claims Following Deadly Crash

A grieving family seeks $250 million in damages from the FAA and U.S. Army following a catastrophic plane crash near Washington, D.C., that claimed 67 lives.

Key Insights

The family of Casey Crafton filed $250 million in claims against the U.S. government following a deadly plane crash.
The crash on January 29 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport marked the first fatal commercial plane crash in the U.S. since 2009.
Claims include $50 million for personal injury and $200 million for wrongful death.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating, with potential factors including missed radio communication and altitude issues.
The government has six months to respond before the family may file lawsuits in federal court.

Tragic Collision Sparks Legal Action

On January 29, a devastating collision between a military helicopter and a passenger jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport resulted in 67 fatalities. This tragic event, the deadliest in the U.S. since 2001, has prompted the family of victim Casey Crafton to file $250 million in claims against the U.S. government. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Army, which operated the Black Hawk helicopter involved in the crash, are the targets of these claims.

The legal action, filed under the Federal Tort Claims Act, includes $50 million for personal injury and $200 million for wrongful death. This move serves as a precursor to potential lawsuits if the claims are not addressed within the six-month response period granted to the government.

Family of DC plane crash victim files $250 million claim against government https://t.co/8tEDAEvF4M

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Allegations of Negligence

The family’s claims highlight several alleged failures that may have contributed to the crash. These include understaffing at the air traffic control tower, the helicopter flying above its altitude limit, and critical communication lapses. An FAA report indicated that air traffic control staffing was not at normal levels during the incident, with one controller handling multiple duties.

“This was a disaster waiting to happen, and it just so happened that particular night. Everything came together to create this preventable tragedy,” attorney Robert Clifford said.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting a thorough investigation into the crash. NTSB Chairman Jennifer Homendy has mentioned potential missed radio communication and possible altitude issues as factors under scrutiny. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days after the incident, with a final report anticipated in one to two years.

A Family’s Profound Loss

Casey Crafton, a technical support manager and father of three young sons, leaves behind a grieving family. The impact of his loss extends far beyond the monetary value of the claim.

“Casey was an incredible human being. He was a giver. He was a loving husband and father. He enjoyed coaching his boys on their youth soccer and little league baseball teams. They will be grieving him for the rest of their lives that will never be the same,” Clifford said.

The $250 million claim, while substantial, represents a precautionary ceiling that reflects the immense loss suffered by Crafton’s family. A Meal Train has been set up to support Casey’s wife, Rachel, and their three sons during this difficult time.

Broader Implications for Aviation Safety

This tragic incident is part of a series of recent aviation incidents in the U.S., including ones in Philadelphia, Alaska, and Toronto. It has raised serious questions about air traffic management and safety protocols, particularly in congested airspace near major airports.

As the investigation continues, the aviation industry and regulatory bodies face increasing pressure to address potential systemic issues. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for aviation safety standards and accountability in the United States.