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Transgender Pilot Sues Influencer Over False Claims Tied to Deadly DC Plane Crash

Jo Ellis seeks accountability after Matt Wallace spread viral falsehoods linking her to a January collision that killed 67 people.

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Jo Ellis sued a right-wing social media influencer, alleging defamation after he spread false rumors she was involved in the Washington, D.C. plane crash in January. The transgender pilot had previously spoken out about fears that President Donald Trump's executive order banning transgender service members could impact her.
Jo Ellis created a "proof of life" video after false claims on social media linked her to the plane crash near Reagan National Airport in January.
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Overview

  • Jo Ellis, a Virginia Army National Guard pilot, has filed a defamation lawsuit against influencer Matt Wallace in federal court in Colorado.
  • Wallace falsely claimed Ellis piloted the helicopter involved in the January 29 mid-air collision over Washington, D.C., labeling it a 'trans terror attack.'
  • Ellis released a 'proof of life' video on January 31 to refute the claims, but she has since faced death threats, harassment, and safety concerns.
  • The lawsuit alleges Wallace monetized the false narrative, spreading misinformation to his 2.2 million followers and causing significant harm to Ellis's reputation and safety.
  • Ellis has pledged to donate any monetary damages awarded to the families of the 67 victims of the crash.