Figure skater killed in DC plane crash honored by Tucker Road Ice Rink community
Talented 12-year-old skater remembered after deadly plane crash
A youth figure skater who died in the plane crash over the Potomac River is being remembered for her talent and sportsmanship. FOX 5's Lili Zheng has the story.
A youth figure skater who died in the plane crash over the Potomac River is being remembered for her talent and sportsmanship.
Talented Maryland skater remembered
The backstory:
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the Dept. of Parks and Recreation for Prince George’s County confirmed Olivia Ter, 12, was among the 67 people who died in the crash late Wednesday night.
The collision involved an American Airlines jet returning from Wichita, Kansas to Washington, D.C., and an Army Black Hawk helicopter on a training mission.
Ter was on the jet with 59 other passengers and four crew members. The helicopter had three military members aboard.
In a statement this week, Prince George’s County officials confirmed Ter was a member of the Tucker Road Ice Rink, describing her as an "exceptional youth figure skater".
"Olivia was one of only four elite youth skaters from the region attending the U.S. Figure Skating National Development Camp in Wichita, Kansas that targets promising young skaters," the statement from the county read in part.
The training camp is described as a launchpad for athletes vying for a spot on Team USA in the upcoming world championships.
"Olivia not only excelled in figure skating programs, but inspired others through her talent, determination and sportsmanship. Her passion for the sport and positive influence on her peers and coaches will not be forgotten," the statement continues
Melanie Pedri of Fort Washington takes part in the adult skating classes at the Tucker Road Ice Rink and said she did not know Ter personally, but she has seen her practice.
"I remember thinking, ‘Wow, these young girls have so much finesse’," Pedri said. "I believe as a whole, everyone is mourning the loss of such a tragic accident and just trying to maintain closeness with one another. I know personally, I keep praying for all of the families and victims involved here locally."
Pedri added the incident is a reminder of the fragility of life.
"Love one another. Give your family a huge, give your friend a hug. Just talk to everybody, because when it comes down to it, our hearts all beat the same," she said. "We all have the same feelings. It doesn’t matter what color you are, how old you are, how young you are, we’re all the same. Just show love for one another."
Some members of the community were at the rink Friday morning to show support for the athletes but did not wish to be interviewed on camera.
The Source: The information in this story comes from the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the Dept. of Parks and Recreation and FOX 5 reporting.