ICYMI: Minnesota Mother Among 67 Dead in Devastating D.C. Plane-Helicopter Collision
A Minnesota mother of two was killed when a passenger plane and military helicopter collided near Washington D.C., leaving a trail of grief and devastation. 🌐 #News #StPaulMN #Minnesota #Accident
ST. PAUL, MN – A heartbreaking mid-air collision in Washington D.C. claimed the life of Wendy Jo Shaffer, a devoted mother of two from Minnesota, among 67 others on board. The devastating accident occurred when a passenger plane collided with a military helicopter during its final approach, creating a scene of chaos and sorrow that has left families and communities mourning.
Shaffer, who was traveling on American Airlines flight 5342 from Wichita, Kansas, lost her life when the plane collided with a Black Hawk helicopter on Wednesday evening. Her sudden death has shocked those who knew her and sent waves of grief throughout her hometown and beyond.
A Life Rooted in Minnesota
Wendy Jo Shaffer, formerly Wendy Wigstrom, had deep ties to Minnesota. She graduated from Mahtomedi High School, where she actively participated in ice hockey and other sports, before attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her drive and passion were evident early on and followed her throughout her life.
At the time of her tragic death, Shaffer lived with her husband, Nathan Shaffer, and their two young sons, aged 3 and 1. She had built a successful career, working at Minnesota-based agricultural and food giant Cargill since 2011, while balancing her responsibilities as a loving wife and mother.
Community Rallying Behind the Family
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was created to support the Shaffer family. Since its launch on Thursday, the fundraiser has amassed $300,000, as friends, family, and strangers unite to help the grieving family cover funeral costs, childcare, and future educational needs for her children.
The fundraiser’s organizers described Wendy as the heart of her family. Her love and warmth were felt by all who knew her, making her loss an unbearable reality. She was a devoted partner and a mother whose greatest pride was her children. Her dreams centered on watching her boys grow into extraordinary individuals, a vision now tragically cut short.
Mourning a Woman Whose Legacy Lives On
As tributes pour in, Wendy’s family has requested privacy while they navigate the immense grief of losing someone so integral to their lives. Wendy’s memory will live on through her children, her family, and the countless people she impacted. For those left behind, the outpouring of support and love reflects the profound influence she had in life.
The funds raised will help ensure that her family can continue moving forward, honoring Wendy’s dreams for her children while coping with their unimaginable loss. The community’s generosity reflects the depth of her legacy and the collective grief over such a tragic loss. Find out more about the GoFundMe here.
RELATED TOPICS: Accidents | Airlines | Kansas | Minnesota | Washington, D.C.
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