Former “Dancing with the Stars” professional Charlotte Jorgensen has shared her experience after surviving a tragic crash involving an Air Canada plane at LaGuardia Airport in New York last week. On March 22, an Air Canada Express regional flight, which had 72 passengers and four crew members onboard, collided with a Port Authority fire engine upon landing, tragically resulting in the deaths of both pilots.
In a heartfelt Instagram post on Sunday, Jorgensen detailed her terrifying experience while also expressing gratitude towards the pilots who lost their lives. The 54-year-old dancer recounted her journey home after a pleasant weekend in Montreal, saying, “Many of you might have heard about the collision with a fire truck on the runway.” She included a photo of the crash from the tarmac.
She continued, “I owe my life to two brave souls, Captain Antoine Forrest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther, who made the ultimate sacrifice so we could all live… I am truly grateful to them, and my thoughts are with their families.” Jorgensen mentioned that while adrenaline kept her from feeling immediate distress that night, the following days were physically and emotionally challenging.
Now back home, she expressed appreciation for the support she has received from friends and family, stating, “Nelson and Vivianna are taking care of me. I’m going to take time to heal.” Jorgensen also thanked her “Dancing with the Stars” family for their concern.
Comments flooded in on her post, including one from Lisa O’Herlihy, the wife of her former dance partner, who expressed relief at Jorgensen’s safety. “Charlotte, I’m so glad you’re safe. Such a heartfelt thank you from someone who was actually there,” she wrote. In 2005, Jorgensen and O’Herlihy competed on the first season of “Dancing with the Stars,” finishing as runners-up.
The aftermath of the crash saw over 40 individuals injured, including passengers and fire crew members, and most have since been released from medical care. The National Transportation Safety Board is continuing to investigate the incident.
