The figure skating world is reeling after a devastating plane crash near Reagan International Airport claimed the lives of six individuals connected to The Skating Club of Boston. Among the victims were two promising young skaters, Jinna Han (13) and Spencer Lane (16), their mothers, and their esteemed coaches, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov. The group was returning from a U.S. Figure Skating developmental camp in Wichita, Kansas, held in conjunction with the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships.
Olympic silver medalist Nancy Kerrigan, visibly emotional, spoke at The Skating Club of Boston following the tragedy. She joined other members of the club, including Misha Mitrofanov, Jimmy Ma, and Alisa Efimova, in expressing their grief and sharing memories of the lost skaters and coaches.
Spencer Lane, a rising star in figure skating, trained at The Skating Club of Boston. (Imagn)
Mitrofanov and Efimova, recent pairs champions at the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, emphasized the exceptional talent of Han and Lane. They described the developmental camp as a crucial opportunity for young skaters to witness high-level competition and participate in rigorous training. Ma praised the remarkable skills of both skaters, noting their potential to reach championship levels. Efimova recalled seeing the campers in their distinctive red jackets during the competition, finding inspiration in their enthusiastic support.
Jimmy Ma competing at the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. (William Purnell.Imagn Images)
Shishkova and Naumov, accomplished coaches and former world champions, were remembered for their dedication to nurturing young talent. Ma highlighted their meticulous approach to coaching and the impact they had on their son, Max, also a competitive skater.
Evgenia Shishkova, Vadim Naumov, and Spencer Lane were among the victims of the tragic plane crash. (Instagram/annehgoldbergbaldwin)
The impact of the crash extended beyond The Skating Club of Boston, with the Philadelphia Skating Club & Humane Society also reporting the loss of members. U.S. Figure Skating issued a statement expressing their devastation and offering condolences to the families affected. Mitrofanov affirmed the skating community's commitment to honoring the memory of the victims by continuing to train and compete with passion and dedication.
Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov at the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. (William Purnell/Imagn Images)
