Pilot In Fatal Williamsburg Crash Identified As Alexandria Man

WILLIAMSBURG, VA—Virginia State Police have identified the pilot that crashed a helicopter into a Williamsburg residential building Sunday afternoon, killing himself and a resident.

The medical examiner confirmed Henry Schwarz of Alexandria, 85, as the pilot. The operator of the Williamsburg James City Airport, where Schwarz took off from, initially identified him as the pilot.

Schwarz was founder of the Virginia Helicopter Association, which he founded in 2006, The Virginia Gazette reported. A fellow member told the newspaper he was leaving a Virginia Helicopter Association meeting when he took off in the helicopter around 4:26 p.m., less than 20 minutes before the crash happened.

He also served in the Vietnam War as a pilot in the U.S. Army who led hundreds of air assaults, WAVY-TV reported. He had received 29 medals for his service and was also a member of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society and Wilbur Wright Chapter, National Capital Region.

The helicopter crash also killed Jean Lonchak Danylko, 91, a resident in the apartment building.

The residential building caught fire and emitted heavy smoke after the helicopter hit around 4:42 p.m. Sunday. Witnesses reported to The Virginia Gazette hearing a loud boom and the entire building on fire.

Residents of the 10-unit building are displaced and are receiving help from family, friends, community members and the Red Cross. A GoFundMe page has been set up for William & Mary students living in the building.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Image via Virginia State Police