Emotional Figure Skating Event Honors DC Plane Crash Victims

Some of the most celebrated U.S. figure skaters gathered at Capital One Arena for an emotional tribute to the 67 victims of the midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The Legacy on Ice event aimed to provide comfort, raise funds, and bring together the figure skating community in remembrance.

The tragedy, which occurred on January 29, took the lives of 28 members of the figure skating community, including young skaters, coaches, and judges.

A Star-Studded Skating Tribute

Hosted by Kristi Yamaguchi and Brian Boitano, the event featured performances by Johnny Weir, Amber Glenn, Ilia Malinin, and other top skaters. Each performance carried deep emotional significance:

• Amber Glenn opened the show with an emotional skate to Andra Day’s “Rise Up”, breaking into tears at center ice.
• Johnny Weir dedicated his routine to members of the University of Delaware Figure Skating Club, who were on American Airlines Flight 5342.
• Alysa Liu performed to Mariah Carey’s “Hero”, saying, “Coming together and seeing everyone again is the most reassuring feeling.”
• Scott Hamilton led a heartfelt prayer, with fans lighting up the arena with their phones during a moment of silence.
• Maxim Naumov honored his parents, who died in the crash, holding up an electric candle as he left the ice in tears.

Community Support and Healing

The event was organized by Monumental Sports & Entertainment, U.S. Figure Skating, DC Fire & EMS Foundation, and the Greater Washington Community Foundation.

Ted Leonsis, CEO of Monumental Sports, emphasized the role of sports in healing:

“Our goal is to allow the community to heal—a collective hug for these families.”

The dasher boards around the rink displayed 67 stars, one for each victim, while skaters placed flowers on a table of candles before their performances.

First Responders and NHL Support

Among the audience were first responders, including DC Fire and EMS personnel, who had participated in rescue and recovery efforts. Members of the Washington Capitals and Tampa Bay Lightning attended, showing their support.

Raising Funds for Victim Families

Funds raised will support families with college tuition, mental health care, and financial aid. The event was broadcast live on Monumental Sports Network and streamed on Peacock, with NBC set to air an encore on March 30.

“People care,” Leonsis added. “If we personalize something like this, we can come together and do the right things.”