A Cincinnati native, Elizabeth Anne Keys, tragically lost her life at the age of 33 when the plane she was aboard crashed after colliding with an Army helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday, January 31, 2025. The crash took place on her birthday, resulting in the deaths of all 67 individuals aboard both aircraft.
According to officials, the incident occurred when the helicopter entered the approach path of the American Airlines flight, which was landing at the airport. This led to a massive emergency response involving crews scouring the Potomac River following the crash.
Elizabeth was described as a bright star by those who knew her, including Steve Kramer, the former Superintendent of Madeira City Schools. “She was just a bright star,” he told The Enquirer. A graduate of Madeira High School's class of 2010, where she was valedictorian, Elizabeth achieved high academic honors throughout her education. After high school, she attended Tufts University and graduated in 2014 before earning her Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center in 2020.
Since 2021, Elizabeth had been practicing law at Wilkinson Stekloff, L.L.P. in Washington D.C. Her partner of six years, David Seidman, recalled how Elizabeth was returning from a work trip when the crash occurred. “Liz had such a sharp wit and brought joy to every gathering. She was filled with light and joy,” he said, reflecting the sentiments shared by many.
Elizabeth’s family released a statement highlighting her vibrant spirit and deep love for those around her. “She was strong and fearless – she embraced life at full speed. Liz brought so much joy to our lives, and we are filled with unbearable sorrow and despair at our loss,” they said, noting she was not only cherished by family but also by friends. Her mother lamented the shocking nature of the tragedy, saying, “Liz’s life will be remembered with light.”
Allison Baggott, one of Elizabeth's childhood friends from Madeira schools, described her as genuinely caring and supportive. “I feel like we were friends, and then after I was diagnosed with some of the challenges I’ve had, she really made it a point to be my friend and look out for me,” Baggott recalled, reflecting on the compassion Elizabeth showed to those around her.
The attempted rescue and recovery efforts following the crash brought together many community leaders and responders, recognizing the tragic loss of lives. Elizabeth never went unnoticed, whether it was for her academic success, her leadership role within the community, or her genuine kindness toward those she encountered. The pain and grief following her passing is felt deeply across multiple circles, as shared memories and tributes continue to pour in.
A friend commented on her various attributes, stating “Gatherings were always brighter when Liz was there. She was incredibly talented, engaging, and filled with warmth and kindness.” The response to this tragedy not only highlighted Elizabeth’s achievements, but also the significant positive impact she made on countless lives.
Elizabeth Keys’ legacy is undoubtedly marked by love, laughter, and incredible intellect. With heartfelt tributes from friends, family, colleagues, and the wider community, she will be remembered far beyond the tragic accident. Investigators will continue to analyze the circumstances surrounding the collision between the plane and helicopter, but the spirit of the woman who lost her life will forever remain present through the memories shared by all those who loved her.