The 1994 D.C. plane crash, a devastating collision between an American Airlines Flight and an Army helicopter over the Potomac River, claimed the lives of 67 individuals, including Roger and Stephanie Haynos, both 56, and their 16-year-old son, Cory. The Haynos family, from Virginia, was returning from a figure skating development camp in Kansas where Cory, a talented young skater, had been honing his skills. This trip was a rare occasion for the family, as both parents were usually unable to attend Cory’s skating events together due to work commitments. Their tragic loss left a void in the hearts of their loved ones and the figure skating community. This article delves into the lives of the Haynos family, their final days, and the lasting impact of their untimely deaths.
A Devoted Family and a Budding Olympian’s Dream
Roger and Stephanie Haynos were dedicated parents who tirelessly supported Cory’s passion for figure skating. While both worked full-time, they ensured Cory received the necessary training and encouragement to pursue his Olympic dreams. Stephanie, in particular, made significant sacrifices for her children. She put her pursuit of a doctorate degree on hold to dedicate herself to supporting both Cory and her daughter, Emily, in their skating endeavors. The Kansas trip was a special occasion, marking the first time in years that the entire family could travel together to watch Cory compete. Filled with excitement, they discussed Cory’s progress, including his mastery of the triple axel, and the long road ahead towards achieving his Olympic aspirations.
The Unforeseen Tragedy and Its Aftermath
The Haynos family’s return journey ended in tragedy when their plane crashed into the Potomac River. Marianne Crooch, a close family friend and former colleague of Stephanie’s, recounts the harrowing experience of learning about the accident and the agonizing wait for confirmation. She vividly remembers texting and calling Stephanie, hoping for a response that never came. The devastating news was ultimately delivered by a friend connected to Roger’s best friend, who was waiting at the airport to pick up the family.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(389×525:391×527)/Stephanie-Haynos-plane-victim-020625-tout-fed97a7658514a3f85458e422e730f73.jpg)
(L-R) Stephanie, Cory and Roger Haynos. GoFundMe
Remembering the Haynos Family: A Legacy of Love and Dedication
The loss of the Haynos family deeply impacted their community, particularly the figure skating world. Stephanie was an active member of the Skating Club of Northern Virginia, serving on the board and tirelessly contributing to the club’s success. Friends describe Stephanie as a radiant and generous person, always ready with a kind word and a loving heart. Her colleagues at Fairfax County Public Schools, where she worked in the IT department and later as a substitute teacher, remember her as a shining light who brought joy to everyone around her. Cory is remembered for his unwavering discipline and dedication to his sport, waking up at 4:30 am six days a week to practice. His talent and potential were evident to all who witnessed him skate, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Coping with Loss and Honoring Their Memory
The tragedy left behind Emily, the Haynos’ 19-year-old daughter, who was not on the ill-fated flight. The immense grief of losing both parents and her brother was a heavy burden for a young woman to bear. While described as quiet and introspective, Emily’s struggle to process the profound loss was evident. Friends rallied around her, offering support and comfort during this incredibly difficult time. The outpouring of love and support from the community reflected the profound impact the Haynos family had on those around them.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(649×0:651×2)/stephanie-roger-haynos-013125-092b079a58d04b62846c01449f793899.jpg)
Stephanie Haynos and Roger Haynos. Stephanie Branton Haynos/Facebook
The 1994 D.C. Plane Crash: A Lasting Reminder
The 1994 D.C. plane crash serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the suddenness with which tragedy can strike. The Haynos family’s story, like those of the other victims, underscores the importance of cherishing loved ones and pursuing passions with unwavering dedication. Their memory continues to inspire those who knew them and serves as a testament to the enduring power of love, dedication, and the pursuit of dreams. The skating community, in particular, continues to honor the Haynos family’s legacy, remembering Cory’s promising talent and the unwavering support of his parents. Their story remains a poignant reminder of the human cost of such tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 1994 D.C. Plane Crash
What caused the 1994 D.C. plane crash? The crash was attributed to pilot error and inadequate air traffic control procedures.
How many people died in the crash? A total of 67 people lost their lives, including all passengers and crew on both the plane and the helicopter.
Where did the crash occur? The crash occurred over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., near the 14th Street Bridge.
What type of aircraft were involved? An American Airlines Boeing 737 and a U.S. Army Bell UH-1H Iroquois (Huey) helicopter were involved in the collision.
What is the legacy of the crash? The crash led to significant changes in air traffic control procedures and safety regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future. It also serves as a somber reminder of the importance of aviation safety and the devastating consequences of accidents.
