Former Skating Champion Nancy Kerrigan Pays Emotional Tribute to DC Plane Crash Victims

Former Olympic figure skater Nancy Kerrigan was visibly emotional as she attended a memorial event at the Boston Skating Club on Thursday, mourning the victims of a devastating plane crash that claimed the lives of several club members. The tragedy struck when an American Airlines plane collided with a military helicopter before crashing into the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. The heartbreaking incident has deeply affected the Boston skating community, where Kerrigan has long been a regular presence.

A Skating Icon in Mourning

Kerrigan, who has been a familiar face at the Boston Skating Club for years, took part in a press meeting where she broke down in tears while speaking about the victims. “This is such a tragic loss for our community,” she shared, visibly shaken. “Some of these skaters were just beginning their journeys. It’s heartbreaking.”

The Boston Skating Club’s CEO confirmed that several members were on board the ill-fated flight, making the loss all the more personal for Kerrigan and her fellow skaters. The tragedy has left a void in the hearts of many, and Kerrigan’s emotional response highlighted the deep bonds within the skating world.

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Nancy Kerrigan: A Life Dedicated to Skating

Born on October 13, 1969, in Stoneham, Massachusetts, Nancy Kerrigan has been a force in figure skating since the early 1990s. At 55 years old (2025), she remains a respected figure in the sport, both for her past achievements and her ongoing contributions to the skating community.

Kerrigan first gained international recognition with her impressive performances at the 1992 Winter Olympics, where she won the bronze medal. She solidified her legacy two years later by clinching the silver medal at the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, despite being at the center of one of the most infamous controversies in sports history.

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Even after retiring from competitive skating, Kerrigan has continued to be involved in the sport, working as a commentator, appearing in skating specials, and mentoring young skaters. Her love for the sport and dedication to the next generation of skaters have kept her deeply connected to the skating world.

Family and Personal Life

Beyond her skating career, Kerrigan has built a fulfilling personal life. She married her longtime manager, Jerry Solomon, in 1995, and together, they have three children: Matthew, Brian, and Nicole. The family has largely stayed out of the public eye, but Kerrigan has occasionally shared insights into her life as a mother and mentor to aspiring skaters.

Financially, Kerrigan has enjoyed success beyond the rink. As of 2025, estimates of her net worth range between $10-$16 million, thanks to her career earnings, endorsements, and television appearances.

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A Community United in Grief

As Boston mourns the loss of its skaters, Kerrigan’s presence at the memorial has been a poignant reminder of the strong ties within the figure skating world. The loss of these talented athletes has left an indelible mark, but Kerrigan’s heartfelt tribute underscores the importance of community, resilience, and remembering those who left too soon.

This tragic event has brought the skating world together in grief, but also in solidarity, as they honor the lives lost and support one another through this difficult time.