The figure skating community is mourning a devastating tragedy that occurred when American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter on a fateful Wednesday night. Among those lost in the crash were talented skaters, coaches, and their loved ones—individuals closely connected to The Skating Club of Boston. This heartbreaking incident has shaken not only the local community but also the entire figure skating world.
Nancy Kerrigan, a two-time Olympic medalist and a beloved figure in the sport, visited the club’s rink in Norwood, Massachusetts, the day after the tragedy to offer comfort and seek solace among fellow skaters and their families. “I told them, I have to be around you guys,” Kerrigan shared during an emotional conversation with PEOPLE. “I needed the community, the support. It’s okay to ask for help and to be there for one another.”
A Personal Loss for the Skating Community
The victims of the crash included notable members of The Skating Club of Boston, such as former world pairs champions Evgenia Shiskova and her husband Vadim Naumov, young skater Spencer Lane and his mother Christine, and skater Jinna Han with her mother Jin. The crash also claimed the lives of skaters from other clubs, including sisters Everly and Alydia Livingston.
“It’s heart-wrenching,” Kerrigan expressed, her voice heavy with emotion. “Everybody who died is somebody’s somebody.” The grief-stricken skater, who hails from nearby Stoneham, Massachusetts, emphasized the importance of being present for the community during such a trying time. “I had to be here,” she said. “This really hits home. The skating community has been through tragedy before.”
Kerrigan’s reference to past heartbreaks in the sport struck a poignant chord. She recalled the 1961 Sabena Flight 548 disaster that claimed the lives of all 18 members of the U.S. figure skating team as they traveled to the world championships in Prague. That tragedy led U.S. Figure Skating to establish a memorial fund to support up-and-coming athletes. Now, history has tragically repeated itself, leaving the community once again grappling with loss.
Remembering Lives Filled with Passion and Dedication
The victims of the crash were returning from a development camp following the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. For many, it had been a week filled with joy, growth, and camaraderie—a stark contrast to the sorrow that followed.
Sixteen-year-old Spencer Lane, a promising young skater, was among those lost. His family released a heartfelt statement describing his incredible journey in the sport. “His ascent from basic Learn to Skate classes to U.S. Figure Skating’s National Development Team in just a few short years was unprecedented,” they wrote. “We are so grateful that his last week was filled with joy and surrounded by his beloved Skating Club of Boston and the U.S. Figure Skating family.”
The loss of Evgenia Shiskova and Vadim Naumov, a legendary pair both on and off the ice, leaves an irreplaceable void in the skating world. As former world champions and beloved coaches, they had inspired countless skaters with their dedication, artistry, and passion for the sport. Their contributions to figure skating will be remembered for generations.
Jinna Han and her mother Jin were also cherished members of the community. Jinna’s vibrant energy and love for skating made her a role model for young skaters at the club. The Livingston sisters, Everly and Alydia, were similarly admired for their determination and talent. Their tragic deaths have left their fellow skaters heartbroken.
Seeking Strength in Community
Kerrigan’s decision to visit the rink the day after the crash underscores the importance of unity in times of tragedy. “I just wanted to be here and be part of our community,” she said, fighting back tears. The Olympic medalist spent hours speaking with skaters and their families, offering words of comfort and sharing memories.
The Skating Club of Boston, known for fostering a supportive and tight-knit environment, has become a refuge for those grappling with grief. Doug Zeghibe, CEO of the club, expressed the collective devastation in a heartfelt post on social media. “Our sport and this club have suffered a horrible loss with this tragedy,” he wrote. “We are devastated and completely at a loss for words.”
A Legacy of Resilience
The figure skating community has faced adversity before, and Kerrigan remains hopeful that it will find the strength to persevere once again. “The skating community has always been resilient,” she said. “We lift each other up. That’s what we do.”
As the community mourns, plans are already underway to honor the memories of those lost. U.S. Figure Skating and The Skating Club of Boston are exploring ways to commemorate the victims and support their families. There is talk of establishing scholarships or funds in the names of the skaters and coaches, ensuring that their legacies live on.
For Kerrigan, the tragedy has been a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. “We have to hold onto each other and remember what really matters,” she said. “Skating is a beautiful sport, but it’s the people who make it truly special.”
Moving Forward with Hope
In the days and weeks to come, the figure skating community will continue to navigate its grief. Memorial services and tributes are expected to take place, offering opportunities for skaters, coaches, and fans to come together in remembrance.
Kerrigan’s message to the community is clear: “Lean on each other. Be there for one another. And never forget those we’ve lost.” Her heartfelt words reflect the spirit of a community that, despite its sorrow, remains bound by love and resilience.
As the skating world mourns this unimaginable loss, one thing is certain—the legacies of those who perished will continue to inspire future generations of skaters. Their passion, dedication, and love for the sport will never be forgotten.
In times of tragedy, the strength of the skating community shines brightest. And while the pain of this loss will linger, the memories of those lost will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.