Tragedy Strikes Boston Skating Club as Six Members Die in Plane Crash

WASHINGTON — A tragic incident occurred Wednesday night, resulting in the loss of several lives when an American Airlines flight collided with an Army helicopter over the Potomac River. Among the casualties were two young figure skaters, their parents, and two esteemed Russian figure skating coaches.

Authorities confirmed that Jinna Han and Spencer Lane, both figure skaters, perished in the crash alongside coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov. Doug Zeghibe, CEO of the Skating Club of Boston, expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the extensive impact this loss will have on their community.

U.S. Figure Skating noted that the flight carried multiple skaters, coaches, and family members returning from a development camp after the national championships in Wichita, Kansas. A heartfelt statement from U.S. Figure Skating lamented the tragedy, highlighting the close-knit nature of the skating community.

The Kremlin confirmed the identities of Shishkova and Naumov, both of whom made significant contributions to the sport, including a world title in 1994. They had transitioned to coaching in the U.S., where their son, Maxim, was also an accomplished figure skater.

On board the ill-fated flight were 60 passengers and four crew members, in addition to three soldiers aboard the helicopter engaged in a training flight. Initial reports indicate clear flight conditions; however, an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the collision.

“We are now at the point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation,” stated John Donnelly, the D.C. fire chief, underscoring the grim outlook for survivors.

The Skating Club of Boston, renowned for its production of Olympic and world champions, is set to host the world championships next month. This event holds particular significance, given the club’s storied legacy that includes legendary names like two-time Olympic champion Dick Button and two-time Olympic medalist Nancy Kerrigan.

The figure skating community is no stranger to tragedy. In 1961, a plane crash killed an entire American figure skating team traveling to the world championships, prompting the cancellation of that year’s event.

While this devastating incident unfolds in Washington, international competitions like the European championships in Tallinn, Estonia, are proceeding as scheduled. The International Skating Union voiced profound shock and offered support to U.S. Figure Skating during this difficult time.