Skaters Honor Victims at Emotional Tribute in Washington

WASHINGTON (AP) — A star-studded lineup of U.S. figure skaters performed at the Legacy on Ice event in Washington, D.C., on March 2, 2025, to honor the 67 victims of a tragic aviation incident that occurred on January 29. The show not only celebrated the artistry of figure skating but also aimed to raise funds for the families affected by the disaster.

Maxim Naumov, who lost both parents in the crash, was visibly emotional as he left the ice, holding an electric candle aloft amid roaring applause. ‘It really put me to tears and it put a lot of us to tears,’ said Ilia Malinin, the reigning world champion and Northern Virginia native, who was instrumental in organizing the tribute. ‘I was really proud of him for being able to kind of wrap his mind around this and really just get on that ice and perform with everything he’s got.’

The Legacy on Ice event featured performances from other notable skaters including Amber Glenn and Johnny Weir. A poignant moment occurred when 13-year-old Isabella Aparicio skated in memory of her brother Franco and father Luciano, who were on the ill-fated flight. Isabella ended her performance weeping on her knees, an emotional scene echoed throughout the arena.

Organizers announced that approximately $1.2 million had been raised during the event, which drew a sellout crowd of over 15,000 attendees. Monumental Sports & Entertainment, in collaboration with U.S. Figure Skating, hopes to continue the fundraising efforts over the coming weeks to further assist the affected families and first responders.

The event resonated deeply within the skating community, particularly given that 28 of the victims were part of it. ‘Being here in this region and knowing everyone on that flight in our community was a very traumatic experience for me,’ Malinin shared, emphasizing the personal connection many skaters had with those lost.

Throughout the two-plus-hour program, emotions ran high as tributes to each victim were honored. Olympic legends Brian Boitano and Kristi Yamaguchi served as emcees, guiding the audience through a night filled with memories and tributes.

Monumental chairman Ted Leonsis expressed gratitude for the community’s support. ‘Against the backdrop of this massive tragedy, this region has provided a light in showcasing its generosity and empathy for the victims, their families, and the heroic first responders,’ he said.

The performance was broadcast locally on Monumental Sports Network and streamed on Peacock, with a further broadcast planned by NBC on March 30. Overall, the Legacy on Ice event aimed to create a positive impact amidst sorrow, providing a moment of collective remembrance and healing for those affected by the incident.