Near Ronald Reagan National Airport, an incident where American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter had a mid-air collision on the 29th of January 2025. All 67 passengers on board the Washington plane crash perished in the tragic event. On board, several members of the U.S. figure skating community.
The Livingston Family: A Profound Loss
Peter and Donna Livingston and their two daughters, Everly, 14, and Alydia, 11 were among the victims of the tragic event. Both sisters were passion-filled figure skaters who were affiliated with the Washington Figure Skating Club, training at the Ashburn Ice House in Virginia. Social media recognized them as the “Ice Skating Sisters,” as they steadily built an online presence due to their undeniable dedication to the sport.
A Glimpse into Their Aspirations
Just days before the Washington plane crash, Everly and Alydia posted a photo from the championship event on Instagram, captioned: “If you look closely at Alydia’s badge… We were born ready for this. But is @usfigureskating ready for this much Livingston at Nationals?” Everly had previously expressed her ambitions, stating “My goals are to actually be a part of Team USA and travel around the world.”
The Beyer Family’s Heartbreaking Loss
Justyna Beyer, 42, and her 12-year-old daughter, Brielle were also victims of the Washington plane crash. Justyna Beyer, a dedicated nurse and mother, Brielle an aspiring figure skater who had just celebrated her 12th birthday. Justyna’s husband and Brielle’s father, Andy Beyer spoke out on his grief, explaining the profound love the family shared. He waited at the airport for their arrival, only to receive the bad news.
Remembering Edward Zhou and His Family
Talented and compassionate skater, Sixteen-year-old Edward Zhou was another victim along with his parents. His coach who fondly remembered him, Sandra Sparger commented: “He was a wonderful young man with a bright future ahead.” He was well known for his warmth and dedication to the sport, always offering a comforting hug to his teammates.
Read More: ‘My Worst Nightmare’: Paramedic Responds To Crash That Fatally Injured Her Daughter
The Haynos Family’s Tragic End
Roger and Stephanie Haynos and their 16-year-old son, Cory also met their tragic end in the Washington plane crash. Cory was well-known for being a talented skater and he had such discipline, he was admired by many. Recently achieving a clean triple Axel, all he dreamed of was reaching the national champs. The Haynos family has left behind a 19-year-old daughter.
Community Mourns and Honors the Victims
The entire skating community has been hard hit by the tragedy with The Ashburn Ice House releasing a statement: “Our heartfelt condolences go out to all affected. The figure skating community is a close-knit, worldwide family, and our hearts are broken.”
Legacy on Ice: A Tribute to the Fallen
A benefit figure skating event is scheduled for March 2 titled “Legacy on Ice” in honor of the Washington plane crash victims at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. The event will be co-hosted by Olympic gold medalist Brian Boitano and will feature performances by top US skaters. These include Ilia Malinin, Amber Glenn, and Alysa Liu. All proceeds of the event will go towards the affected families.
A Community United in Grief and Support
The figure skating community remains in mourning for the loss of so many talented individuals and their accompanying family members. Memorials and fundraisers are being established which reflects the resilience of the community. United at a time of such profound loss, the memories of Everly, Alydia, and all the victims will continue to inspire and remind us of the fragility of life.
