What we know about the victims of the LaGuardia plane crash

QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) — The pilot and copilot killed in the plane crash at LaGuardia Airport on Sunday were both based in Canada, officials said during a Monday news conference. The crash crushed the nose of the Air Canada regional jet and sent about 40 passengers and crew members to area hospitals, some with serious injuries. Most of the passengers have since been released, authorities said. “Two pilots were killed and dozens injured in this tragedy. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement. Officials said the fire truck that the aircraft struck had been crossing the runway to respond to a separate incident involving a United Airlines flight whose pilot had reported an odor issue. The air traffic controller then frantically tried to stop the truck, repeating many times, “Stop, Truck 1. Stop!” The controller can then be heard trying to divert an incoming aircraft from landing. The Air Canada flight took off from Montreal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, the main airport serving Montreal. Officials did not immediately release the identities of the pilot and co-pilot. LaGuardia will remain closed until at least 2 p.m. Monday. The National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on social media that he “expresses his condolences to the victims, families, and all those impacted following last night’s collision involving an Air Canada Express aircraft in New York,” adding that Canadian and U.S. officials are working closely as the investigation continues. Air Canada has established a hotline for friends and family of affected passengers at 1-800-961-7099.