News
Canadian Olympic Figure Skater, Alexandra Paul 31, Killed in Crash
Canadians are paying respect to Alexandra Paul, a former Canadian Olympic figure skater who died in a crash involving seven automobiles in Ontario, Canada. Charlie, her son, who was in the backseat at the time of the collision, was taken to a children’s hospital and treated for non-life threatening injuries.
Three other people were hurt, including a 45-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man who were brought to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
According to the National Post, a 67-year-old man who had to be extricated from his vehicle by emergency services was taken to a Toronto-area trauma centre with critical injuries.
Alexandra Paul and Mitchell Islam finished eighth in the duos competition at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Paul then went on to study law.
Her relationship with Islam was also romantic, as the couple married in September 2021 and welcomed baby Charlie shortly afterwards.
Skate Canada released a statement on Friday, recalling Paul as a’shining star on and off the rink whose devotion, passion, and talents left a legacy on the figure skating world.’
‘Her dedication to perfection was only equaled by her warmth and kindness, which drew her to fellow athletes, coaches, and fans alike,’ according to the statement.
‘As we reflect on Alexandra’s contributions to the sport, we also consider the friendship and sportsmanship she demonstrated.
She was not only a talented athlete, but also a true role model for young skaters, exemplifying the principles of tenacity, perseverance, and sportsmanship.’
Her death stunned the law company as well. According to CTV News, the young lawyer is a ‘kind, inquiring girl with a pleasant demeanour and tremendous passion for her career and family.’
‘Alex came to us as a summer student, then articled with us, and then practised with us as a young lawyer after her call to the Bar in 2021,’ said Joanne McPhail, the firm’s managing partner, in a statement.
‘She was an important member of our team and a close friend to many of us. She just attended our firm’s golf event last week and was as excited about her future as we were.’
A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist Islam with the ‘daunting reality of parenting Charlie as a widower father.’ As of Saturday morning, it has raised $146,000.
‘As a Canadian success story is sadly cut short, Alex will be remembered as a passionate, determined young lady who could illuminate any room she visited,’ reads the campaign.
‘Alex was not only nice, smart, humorous, and tenacious, but she was also a fixture in the international figure skating scene, representing Canada at the Olympics. Above all, Alex will be remembered as a caring daughter, sister, wife, and Charlie’s mother.’
