AMHERST, NY (WKBW) — Several members of the U.S. Figure Skating community were among those killed when a passenger jet and Black Hawk military helicopter collided near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday.
U.S. Figure Skating said the athletes, coaches and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas.
"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available."
The tragic event has deeply affected the skating community.
I spoke to members of the Western New York skating community on Thursday night who expressed their sorrow and determination to support the victims' families.
"It was devastating to hear that we had lost so many skaters and coaches and their family members," said Anna Wilson, a coach at the Amherst Skating Club.
Claire Cerra, with Skater's Edge in Williamsville, is organizing a fundraiser to support the families affected by the crash.
"I just knew that once the families came forward with how they could take assistance that how U.S. Figure Skating might marshal support, I wanted our community to be ready to respond," Cerra said.
The Buffalo Skating Club has also expressed solidarity, stating:
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims’ families, and we are holding our USFS family in the Skating Club of Boston, Philadelphia Skating Club & Humane Society, and Ashburn Ice House close to our hearts as they navigate this unspeakable loss."
In this time of tremendous loss, the skating community is coming together to support one another and the families of those who perished in the crash.
"Take it one step at a time and make sure everyone's emotionally doing all right," said Anna Wilson, emphasizing the community's commitment to healing.
You can find ways to help the families here.