DWTS Champ Meryl Davis Recalls ‘Magical Time of Year’ for Skating Community Following Tragic Crash

Season 18 “Dancing With the Stars” champ Meryl Davis has spoken out following the mid-air collision between a helicopter and a passenger plane in DC.

Skating Club of Boston CEO Doug Zeghibe told NBC News that 14 people on the plane were ice skaters who had attended a development camp in Wichita, Kansas.

“The US Championships are always the most magical time of year for our community. We come together to celebrate hard work, passion, and dedication,” Davis said in a statement posted to her Instagram Stories in January 30. She, along with her dance partner Charlie White, are Olympic champions.

“We come together for the love of the sport and the way that it uniquely bonds us as a skating family. From the youngest to the most seasoned, those on the ice and in the stands, there’s a connectivity at Nationals that has to be felt to be understood,” she continued.

The American Eagle Flight #5342 was carrying 60 passengers and 4 crew members, all of whom are presumed dead.

Meryl Davis Said Her ‘Heart Is Shattered’

The U.S. Figure Skating team confirmed that 14 U.S. figure skaters were on the plane at the time of the crash.

Davis, who isn’t very active on social media, felt the pain of this tragedy deeply.

“My heart is shattered thinking of those sweet young souls whose lives were cut so cruelly short, still buzzing from the magic of development camp in Wichita and full of hopes and dreams for the future. Proud parents who have sacrificed so much, tired and eager to get home. The coaches who have dedicated their lives to guiding and nurturing young athletes. And for those waiting at home with a warm hug, excited to hear all about it,” she said.

“An unspeakable loss for our skating family and beyond,” she added.

DWTS Alum Johnny Weir Said He’s ‘Praying’ for Those Involved

In addition to Davis, Season 29 “Dancing With the Stars” alum Johnny Weir also spoke out following the incident.

“I’m praying for everyone affected by this tragic accident. Members of our skating family were on that flight returning home from Nationals in Wichita. We mourn their loss and pray for their families & loved ones,” Weir wrote on his Instagram Stories on January 30.

Meanwhile, at least one fan expressed worry that Weir may have been on the flight himself.

“Pleaseeeeeeee tell us Johnny and Tara were not on the flight from Wichita that crashed tonight at Reagan Airport. Pleaseeeeee No,” read a comment on one of Weir’s recent Instagram shares.

Season 6 DWTS champ Kristi Yamaguchi, who is also a well-known figure skater, posted a broken heart on her Instagram Stories.