In a message addressed to President Donald Trump, Pope Francis expressed his sorrow and the assurance of his prayer after the January 29 collision of a commercial flight and a military helicopter outside of Washington, DC.
The message says:
After learning of the mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, I express my spiritual closeness to all those affected by this tragedy. In commending the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, I offer my deepest sympathies to the families who are now mourning the loss of a loved one. I likewise pray for those involved in the recovery efforts and invoke upon all in the nation the divine blessings of consolation and strength.
The 64 people on board the commercial flight and the three soldiers on the helicopter are all presumed dead.
Various government offices have promised a thorough investigation.
