Vadim Naumov, Evgeniua Shishkova Obituary, Death – Authorities have now identified at least 20 victims from the tragic midair collision near Washington, D.C., including a diverse group of individuals with connections to the U.S. figure skating community and academia.
One of the most recent identifications was a civil rights attorney who had recently been appointed as a professor at Howard University. Additionally, many victims had ties to New England, including a mother and son from Barrington, Rhode Island.
Among the 14 passengers returning from an elite figure skating camp, several were associated with the Skating Club of Boston and had deep connections to southern New England. The identified victims included Jeena Han and her mother Tin, Barrington resident Spencer Lane and his mother Christine, as well as esteemed coaches Vadim Naumov and Evgeniua Shishkova. They were all aboard the ill-fated American Airlines flight departing from Wichita, Kansas.
The tight-knit figure skating community has been deeply affected by this tragedy. Former Olympic figure skater and Skating Club of Boston alum Nancy Kerrigan expressed her shock and sorrow. “I am not sure how to process it,” she shared. “We’ve been through tragedies before as Americans, as people, and we are strong, and I guess it is how we respond to it.”
One of the victims, 16-year-old Spencer Lane from Barrington, was a rising star in figure skating. He had recently qualified for the national development camp in November and was celebrated for his exceptional athletic abilities. Spencer’s father, Doug Lane, spoke highly of his son’s talent and passion for the sport. “The best way I can describe him is, he was a force of nature. He just had amazing athletic abilities,” Lane shared.
Doug Lane also expressed gratitude that his son’s final days were filled with joy, doing what he loved most—figure skating. His reflections underscored the pain and devastation experienced by those who lost loved ones in the crash.
As the investigation into the cause of the collision continues, families, friends, and communities are left grappling with the immense loss. This tragedy has left an indelible mark on the figure skating world and beyond, reminding everyone of the fragility of life and the strength required to navigate profound loss.
In the wake of this disaster, communities are coming together to honor the memories of those lost. Spencer Lane’s remarkable achievements and vibrant personality are being remembered by those who knew him best, as is the legacy of the other passengers whose lives were cut tragically short.
As the investigation progresses, updates will provide more clarity, but for now, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and the figure skating community as they navigate this difficult time. The loss of these talented and beloved individuals will be felt for years to come, but their memories and contributions will not be forgotten.
