The Guardian (USA)

Olympic figure skater Alexandra Paul killed in crash at age of 31

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The former Olympic figure skater Alexandra Paul has died at the age of 31 in a car crash, Skate Canada has confirmed.

Paul was involved in a seven vehicle crash earlier this week in Melancthon Township, approximat­ely 60 miles north-west of Toronto. Her baby son was also in the car and was taken to a local hospital with nonlife threatenin­g injuries. Three other people were injured in the crash. Paul was pronounced dead at the scene.

“During her illustriou­s career, Alexandra and partner Mitchell Islam won multiple internatio­nal medals, claimed three Canadian Championsh­ip medals and competed at the 2014 Olympic

Winter Games,” Skate Canada said in a statement. “Her commitment to excellence was matched only by her warmth and kindness, which endeared her to fellow athletes, coaches, and fans alike.”

2014 Olympic ice dance champion Meryl Davis also paid tribute to Paul. “Alex had a grace about her that extended far beyond the ice. She always exuded such kindness and warmth,” she said.

After retiring from skating Paul had gained a law degree and became a practicing attorney in 2021.

“We will miss her joyful personalit­y and her intense passion for her work and her family. She was kind, curious and driven in every endeavour she pursued,” he firm, Barriston Law, told Barrie Today.

Islam and Paul were a couple off the ice and married in 2021. Their son, Charles, was born last year. Islam works as a skating coach in the area and a fundraiser set up to help the family had raised $190,000 by Sunday morning.

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