Canadian Olympic figure skater Alexandra Paul has tragically died in a multi-car accident at the age of 31. Her young son, who was with her at the time, survived the accident.
The Olympics organization announced Paul’s death on Saturday, citing 2014 Olympic ice dancing champion Meryl Davis in its press release as saying that Paul “had a grace about him that transcended the ice” — and that “she always radiated such kindness and warmth”.
Alexandra Paul and Mitchell Islam participate in the Short Dance Program at Skate Canada International 2016 in Mississauga, Canada. Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images
Paul died Tuesday while waiting in a traffic queue caused by road works in Melancthon Township, a rural Ontario area.
A “runaway” semi-truck crashed into her car after failing to brake. That truck also collided with several other vehicles, according to Ontario Police.
Paul was pronounced dead at the scene. Their infant son, Charlie, survived and was rushed to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, the Olympia statement said.
Skate Canada mourned Paul’s death in a publication that also recognized her life and accomplishments.
“During their illustrious careers, Alexandra and her partner Mitchell Islam won multiple international medals, captured three Canadian championship medals and competed at the 2014 Winter Olympics,” said Skate Canada.
“Her commitment to excellence was only matched by her warmth and friendliness, which endeared her to fellow athletes, coaches and fans alike.”
Paul’s partnership with her skating partner Mitchell Islam extended beyond the ice when the two married in 2021 and gave birth to their son last year.
Sharing the sad news in a statement, Islam’s father David said the “tragedy that befell the Paul and Islam families on Tuesday afternoon was unimaginable.”
He said his son will “need time and space to deal with the loss of his perfect partner and mother to Charles.”
Alexandra Paul and Mitchell Islam compete in the short dance program at the 2016 US International Figure Skating Classic in Salt Lake City. Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images
Supporters have set up a GoFundMe page for Baby Charlie. The site was looking for $40,000 and by late Saturday had raised almost $200,000.
“In the midst of this heartbreaking situation, Mitch Islam faces the daunting reality of raising Charlie as a widowed father,” the website reads. “We see this fund as a way to contribute to Charlie’s future and provide Mitch with the support he needs to weather this storm.”
Source : themessenger.com