The father of a 12-year-old girl and his wife, who were both tragically killed in the American Airlines crash, has opened up about the moments that made him sense something was wrong. His story offers a heartbreaking look at the tragedy that has left his family devastated.
The accident occurred on January 29, when a PSA Airlines flight, operated by American Airlines, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. Both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River, and despite ongoing recovery efforts, no survivors have been found. The plane was carrying 64 people, including passengers and crew.
Among the victims were Andy Beyer’s wife, Justyna, 42, and their 12-year-old daughter, Brielle, a brave girl who had previously battled and overcome cancer. The family had been returning home after Brielle attended the U.S. Figure Skating National Development Camp, a dream she had worked hard to achieve.
In an interview with ABC News, Andy Beyer shared memories of his daughter, describing her as a determined and joyful soul. “She was such a fighter in everything she did,” he said. “She lived life to the fullest and was incredibly proud of her progress in figure skating. Being part of that team was one of her biggest dreams, and she made it happen.”
Andy’s growing sense of unease began as he and his six-year-old son were on their way to the airport to pick up Justyna and Brielle. “When it was time for the plane to land, they hadn’t landed, and we couldn’t get text messages through,” he recalled. His worry deepened as he saw emergency vehicles rushing to the scene. A friend who worked as an air traffic controller later confirmed the tragic news of the crash.
“I didn’t have much hope, unfortunately,” Andy shared. “We cried together, and hours later, we received the official confirmation of what had happened.”
In the aftermath of this devastating loss, a close friend of the Beyer family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Andy and his young son. The page reads, “We are heartbroken to share the devastating loss of 12-year-old Brielle and her beloved mother, Justyna, who tragically died in the recent Washington, D.C., plane crash. Their absence leaves an irreplaceable void, and we are reaching out for support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Andy’s story is a powerful reminder of the unpredictability of life and the deep bonds of family. As he navigates this unimaginable grief, his courage in sharing his family’s story highlights the enduring love and strength that define them.
