The figure skating world is in mourning following the tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines plane and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River on January 29, 2025. A somber revelation confirmed by skating officials indicates that nearly half of the passengers aboard the ill-fated Flight 5342 were members of the figure skating community, leaving a void in the hearts of athletes, coaches, and fans alike.
A Heartbreaking Loss for the Figure Skating World
In a statement released on February 2nd, Samuel Auxier, Interim CEO of U.S. Figure Skating, confirmed the devastating news: 28 members of the figure skating community were on board Flight 5342. This included 11 young skaters representing five different clubs, four dedicated coaches, and esteemed former world champions. A poignant tribute video shared on the U.S. Figure Skating Instagram page honored the young lives lost, highlighting their passion, dedication, and the bright futures tragically cut short. “They were beloved members of our global skating community, and we mourn their loss together,” Auxier stated.
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Remembering the Fallen: Young Skaters with Olympic Dreams
The 11 young skaters who perished in the crash represented a cross-section of talent and dedication, embodying the spirit of the sport. Three skaters, Alydia Livingston (11), Franco Aparicio (14), and Everly Livingston (14), were members of the Washington Figure Skating Club. The Skating Club of Northern Virginia lost three of their own: Brielle Beyer (12), Cory Haynos (15), and Edward Zhou (16). Jinna Han (13) and Spencer Lane (16) were rising stars from the Skating Club of Boston. The University of Delaware Figure Skating Club mourned the loss of Sean Kay (11) and Angela Yang (11). Finally, Olivia Eve Ter (12), a promising talent from the Ion Figure Skating Club, was also among the victims. Many of these young athletes harbored dreams of Olympic glory, dedicating countless hours to honing their skills. Their loss is a profound blow to the future of figure skating.
Coaches and Mentors Lost: Pillars of the Skating Community
The crash also claimed the lives of four dedicated coaches who played pivotal roles in shaping the next generation of skaters. Inna Volyanskaya (59) of the Washington Figure Skating Club and Alexander Kirsanov of the University of Delaware Figure Skating Club were among those lost. Doug Zeghibe, CEO of the Skating Club of Boston, confirmed the passing of former Russian world champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, renowned coaches who had brought their expertise to the organization. These coaches were not only instructors but also mentors and inspirations to countless young skaters, their guidance and support instrumental in nurturing talent and fostering a love for the sport. Their absence will be deeply felt by the entire skating community.
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A Community United in Grief and Support
The tragic accident has left a profound impact on the figure skating world and beyond. American Airlines confirmed that 64 people were on board the plane at the time of the crash, which occurred around 9 p.m. local time. Three soldiers were also aboard the helicopter. In the aftermath of the tragedy, U.S. Figure Skating has been actively connecting with the families of the victims, offering support and resources during this incredibly difficult time. Auxier emphasized the organization’s commitment to remembering the victims and honoring their legacies: “We will never forget them. May their passion and excellence inspire us and give us strength in the days ahead.”
Honoring the Legacy: Tributes and Support
Numerous tributes are planned to honor the memory of the figure skating community members lost in the crash. The Washington Capitals will host a tribute event on March 2nd at Capital One Arena, with all proceeds benefiting the U.S. Figure Skating Family Support Fund. This fund has been established to provide financial assistance to the families directly impacted by the tragedy. The outpouring of support from the skating community and the wider public underscores the profound impact these individuals had on the lives of others. Their dedication to the sport, their pursuit of excellence, and their vibrant spirits will continue to inspire generations to come. The Potomac River crash serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have. As the figure skating community navigates this period of immense grief, they do so with a shared commitment to honoring the legacy of those lost and ensuring that their memories live on. The U.S. Figure Skating Family Support Fund remains open for donations, offering a tangible way to support the families affected by this heartbreaking loss.
