Rescue and recovery efforts underway in the Potomac River. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

U.S. figure skating legend Nancy Kerrigan mourns skaters killed in D.C. plane crash

Originally posted on The Spun | By Matt Hladik | Last updated Jan 30, 2025 9:54 PM ET

Legendary American figure skater Nancy Kerrigan is among those in mourning following Wednesday night's tragic plane crash in Washington D.C.

Kerrigan, who won a pair of Olympic medals during her career in the 1990s, is a member of the Skating Club of Boston, where several figure skaters who were on the American Airlines flight that collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter trained. In total, more than 60 people on board both flights were killed in the crash.

Speaking at the Skating Club of Boston Thursday, an emotional Kerrigan said she personally knew some of the victims and sent her support to all of those affected.

"We’ve been through tragedies before as Americans, as people, and we are strong," Kerrigan said, via TMZ Sports. "I guess it’s how we respond to it, and my response is to be with people I care about and love, and I needed support."

"We just wish them well and the families the courage and the strength to make the next steps," she added. "I don't know how you look at people who go through tragedies, and you wonder how they do it. I don't know, but we're so strong."

Among those killed in the crash were several skaters returning from a developmental camp, as well as Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, former Russian world champions who became figure skating coaches.

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic air accident in Washington DC," said Thomas Brach, chairman of the International Olympic Committee. "On behalf of the IOC, and personally, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those affected, which we understand may include Olympians, young athletes, and their support staff. Our thoughts are with all the victims, their families, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

Six members of the Skating Club of Boston were also among those who lost their lives, per the club's executive director Doug Zeghibe.

We would once again like to extend our condolences to the families and friends of all who were involved.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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