Timothy Lilley is grappling with the devastating loss of his 28-year-old son, Sam Lilley, a PSA Airlines pilot who tragically died in a crash near Reagan National Airport on January 29, 2025. Sam, who had been pursuing his dream of flying, was aboard a PSA Bombardier CRJ700 when it collided with a military helicopter over the Potomac River. The impact caused both aircraft to crash into the river, claiming Sam’s life along with the others aboard.

Sam’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the aviation community. Engaged and living his dream, Sam had only been flying professionally for two years, after making a career change from marketing to aviation in 2019. His father, Timothy Lilley, a former military pilot himself, initially dismissed the possibility that his son could have been involved in the tragedy. But the heartbreaking truth soon became all too real.

“Sam had so much life ahead of him,” Timothy said, his voice trembling with grief. “He was doing what he loved, and now, he’s gone.” The crash has left the Lilley family in shock, trying to make sense of the tragedy that took their son so suddenly.

Timothy, who had served as a military pilot, knows the risks involved in aviation, but he never expected to face the loss of a loved one in such a way. “When you’re in this field, you know the dangers. But it’s never supposed to happen to your family,” he explained.

Sam’s close friend and fellow pilot, Skeeter Little, shared his memories of Sam, describing him as a joyful, dedicated, and driven individual. “He was always positive, always excited about flying,” Skeeter recalled. “Sam had that infectious energy—he lit up the room, and he was so passionate about his career. He was meant to be up there.”

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash, and President Donald Trump has vowed to ensure the family receives answers. So far, at least 40 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River, with investigators working tirelessly to identify victims and understand the cause of the collision. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has already begun analyzing the black boxes from both the PSA Airlines aircraft and the military helicopter in hopes of uncovering critical details about the events leading up to the crash.

Timothy Lilley believes that the military helicopter was at fault, pointing to a series of errors he believes occurred during the collision. “I think the military helicopter made a mistake, and it cost my son his life,” Timothy said. Though authorities have yet to publicly confirm the cause of the crash, Timothy’s strong conviction is shared by many, as questions mount over how two aircraft—one civilian, one military—could end up in such close proximity to each other.

As the investigation continues, the Lilley family has been left to mourn the loss of Sam, a young man who was just beginning his life as a pilot. His family, friends, and colleagues in the aviation industry are honoring his memory, remembering a man who followed his passion and brought joy to everyone around him.

“Sam was doing what he always dreamed of,” Timothy reflected, “and he was making a difference in the world. I just wish I had more time with him.” Though the pain of losing his son is unbearable, Timothy is determined to seek justice and answers for the tragic accident that took Sam’s life.

For now, the Lilley family waits for answers, hoping that the investigation will bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the crash. In the meantime, they hold onto the memories of a young man whose life was cut short but whose legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.