Transgender Pilot Falsely Identified in D.C. Crash, Denounces Misinformation

Transgender Helicopter Pilot Falsely Identified in D.C. Crash

Jo Ellis, a transgender helicopter pilot serving in the Virginia National Guard for 15 years, found herself the target of false social media claims following the tragic Black Hawk crash in Washington, D.C. Thousands of posts falsely identified her as the third crew member aboard the helicopter.

Ellis was forced to address the rumors head-on, posting a "proof of life" video on Facebook. The false claims, which trended on social media, attempted to tie her transgender identity to the crash.

"I understand some people have associated me with the crash in D.C. and that is false," Ellis said in the video. "It is insulting to the families to try to tie this to some sort of political agenda. They don't deserve that. I don't deserve this. And I hope y'all know that I am alive and well."

The Army has not released the name of the third crew member, who is reportedly female, at the family's request.

Ellis condemned the false information, urging people to report any accounts or posts spreading the rumors. "It's insulting to the victims and families of those lost and they deserve better than this BS from the bots and trolls of the internet," she said.

The incident highlights the dangers of misinformation and the harmful impact it can have on individuals, especially during times of tragedy.