Three-time Olympic gold medalist Ryan Crouser shared his thoughts on the devastating plane crash near Reagan Washington National Airport that tragically claimed the lives of members of the figure skating community. The crash, which involved a collision between an American Airlines flight and an Army helicopter, resulted in the presumed deaths of all 67 individuals on board both aircraft.
Six members of the Skating Club of Boston were on the American Airlines flight, and U.S. Figure Skating confirmed that several members of the skating community were among the victims. The incident deeply affected Crouser, who reflected on the frequent travel athletes undertake.
“It's incredibly difficult to process,” Crouser expressed in an interview. “As athletes, we spend so much time traveling, often by plane. This tragedy is a stark reminder of how fragile life can be. It makes you think, ‘That could have been me.’”
Crouser emphasized the importance of gratitude and appreciating each day. “My deepest condolences go out to the families affected. This tragedy underscores the need to cherish every opportunity and remember that life can change unexpectedly.”
First responders transitioned to recovery efforts on the Potomac River after determining there were likely no survivors. The American Airlines flight carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter had three soldiers on board. The Kremlin also confirmed that two former Olympians, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, were believed to be among the victims.
