Canadian Olympic figure skater Alexandra Paul killed in car crash
Former Olympic figure skater Alexandra Paul has been killed in a car crash, the Canadian skating federation announced.
Paul, 31, competed in ice dancing at the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi. She married her dancing partner, Mitchell Islam, and the two had a son.
“A shining star on and off the ice, Alexandra’s dedication, passion, and remarkable talents have left an indelible mark on the world of figure skating,” Skate Canada said in a Friday statement. “Her commitment to excellence was matched only by her warmth and kindness, which endeared her to fellow athletes, coaches, and fans alike.”
The crash occurred Tuesday in Melancthon Township, Ontario, according to police. A transport truck drove into a construction zone and struck multiple stationary vehicles, investigators said. Paul was sitting in one of the cars with her young son.
In addition to Paul and her son, who was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, three other people were injured in the crash, police said. Seven vehicles were involved in the tragedy.
Paul began her ice dancing career at the Canadian junior championships in 2009. The next year, she and Islam won a silver medal at the 2010 World Junior Championships in The Hague, Netherlands.
The duo won bronze medals at the 2011 Canadian championships, a feat they would repeat in 2014 and 2015. The highlight of their career was the 2014 Sochi Olympics, in which they placed 18th in the ice dancing competition. Paul retired from competitive skating in 2016.
“As we remember Alexandra’s contributions to the sport, we also reflect on the camaraderie and sportsmanship she exemplified,” Skate Canada stated. “She was not only an accomplished athlete but also a true role model for aspiring skaters, demonstrating the values of resilience, perseverance, and sportsmanlike conduct.”
With News Wire Services
