A tragic plane crash in Washington, D.C. has claimed the lives of 67 people, including beloved Disney on Ice performer Inna Volyanskaya and devoted mother Wendy Shaffer. The figure skating community was particularly hard hit, including teenage skaters, their mothers, and former world champions. What safety measures will be implemented to prevent similar accidents?
Devastating Loss for Figure Skating Community
The crash occurred as the jet was attempting to land at Ronald Reagan National Airport. Among the victims were members of the prestigious Skating Club of Boston, including teenage skaters Jinna Han and Spencer Lane, their mothers, and former world champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov.
The figure skating community is reeling from the loss. Tenley Albright, a prominent figure in the sport, expressed the collective grief: “We came here because we needed to be together.” Nancy Kerrigan added, “We’ve been through tragedies before—as Americans, as people—and we are strong. And I guess it’s how we respond to it.”
“Skating is a very close and tight-knit community"
Former figure skater, Nancy Kerrigan talks to the media at the Skating Club of Boston, whose members have died in the Washington DC plane crash
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— Sky News (@SkyNews) January 30, 2025
Disney on Ice Star Among the Victims
Inna Volyanskaya, a renowned Disney on Ice skater and actress, was among those who perished in the crash. She was recognized for her captivating performances as Princess Aurora, Cinderella, Belle, and Ariel, leaving an indelible mark on the skating community.
Ross Lansel, a fellow skater, paid tribute to Volyanskaya’s talent: “She was one of the best skaters I’ve ever seen, honestly. She was one of the best pair girls to skate.” The loss of such a talented performer has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world.
The Skating Club of Boston is mourning six members lost in the D.C. plane crash, including two rising stars, their mothers and two beloved coaches. Olympian Nancy Kerrigan, an alumna of the club, made a visit to offer support and urged the community to keep pushing forward. pic.twitter.com/VuwN98htXj
— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) January 31, 2025
Community Mourns and Seeks Answers
The crash has left a profound impact on the families of the victims and the wider community. American Airlines has set up a hotline and information centers for the families affected by this tragedy.
Faith leaders are holding vigils and offering support to those grieving. Rev. Pamela Hughes Mason emphasized the importance of unity in these difficult times: “The only way we will get through this is together.” As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, the community is left to grapple with the enormous loss and seek ways to honor the memory of those who perished.
Sources:
- Beloved Disney on Ice Little Mermaid actress among latest DC plane crash victims | Daily Mail Online