12-year-old cancer survivor killed in American Airlines crash
On January 29, Andy Beyer was waiting at Reagan National Airport, texting his wife, Justyna, and their 12-year-old daughter Brielle, a cancer survivor and competitive figure skater. However, he tragically learned that their flight, American Airlines 5342, had crashed, killing all 67 people onboard, including Brielle and Justyna.
Brielle, who had survived neuroblastoma as a baby, was a top young figure skater, and the trip to Wichita for intensive training had been a major accomplishment for her. Despite ongoing challenges from her cancer recovery, Brielle remained a top competitor in her age group. Andy had been eagerly awaiting their return after six days apart, looking forward to reuniting with them.
The aircraft collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter as it approached the airport. The crash killed all on board, including three soldiers on the helicopter. Devastated, Andy shared on social media that he had lost his “soulmate” and “princess,” describing Brielle as an amazing figure skater and person. He expressed his deep love for them, saying, “I really lived my life for them, I loved them more than anything, and I’m going to miss them so much.”
