Kiah Duggins, a former Miss Kansas contestant and aspiring law professor, tragically died in a commercial jet collision with a military helicopter near Washington D.C. at the age of 30. Known for her dedication to fighting unconstitutional policing and unjust money bail practices, Duggins was set to begin teaching at Howard University. Originally from Wichita, Kansas, she was a well-respected scholar and activist who inspired those around her.
Duggins, a graduate of Wichita State University and Harvard University, worked as a civil rights attorney at the non-profit Civil Rights Corps. Described as a beloved sister-friend and beacon of grace and integrity, her legacy of kindness and dedication to social justice will not be forgotten. The crash occurred when American Airlines Flight 5342 attempted to land at Reagan National Airport and collided with a Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in the deaths of all on board both aircrafts.
A fundraiser has been set up in Duggins’ honor to support causes she was passionate about and ensure her work lives on. Friends and family, including former Miss Kansas pageant director Larry Strong, paid tribute to her and expressed their condolences. The crash is still under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board, who have recovered both black boxes from the planes. Duggins’ impact on her community and dedication to fighting injustice will be remembered by all who knew her.