Figure Skating Champions Maxim Naumov’s Parents Die in DC Plane Crash

Maxim Naumov, a promising U.S. figure skater, is mourning the loss of his parents, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who tragically died in a plane crash. The couple inspired him throughout his skating journey. Their absence looms large as he competes for his first Olympic medal at the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.

Tragic Incident Overview

Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were among 67 individuals killed on January 29, 2025, when their American Eagle Flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over Washington, D.C. The flight was en route from Wichita, Kansas. This incident not only deprived Maxim of his parents but also affected the wider figure skating community.

Maxim Naumov’s Olympic Aspirations

Naumov is set to represent the U.S. in the men’s team event on February 7, followed by the men’s single skating short program on February 10. During a recent competition at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in St. Louis, he held up a photograph of his parents, reflecting on their enduring legacy.

Who Were Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov?

The couple were not only Naumov’s greatest supporters but were also accomplished figure skaters themselves. Highlights of their illustrious careers include:

• Gold medalists in pair skating at the 1994 World Figure Skating Championships.
• Competitors at the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, finishing fifth in pairs.
• Fourth place finish at the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway.

Throughout their careers from 1993 to 1995, they amassed three medals at the World Championships and three medals at the European Championships. They married in 1995 and continued their legacy as coaches at the Skating Club of Boston.

Continuing a Legacy

Naumov, now 24, reflects on the profound impact his parents had on his life and career. In a heartfelt interview on TODAY, he emphasized, “I would not be here without them.” Following their tragic passing, he has also taken on coaching responsibilities at the Skating Club of Boston, continuing their legacy.

The Impact on the Skating Community

The crash notably affected the figure skating world. Out of the 67 fatalities, 28 were associated with the sport, including young skaters returning from a national development camp. Naumov joined forces with other skaters to honor their memory at the “Legacy on Ice” event in March 2025, raising funds for affected families.

Maxim Naumov’s journey is a poignant reminder of resilience in the face of tragedy. As the Winter Olympics approach, he continues to carry the memory of his parents, embodying their spirit as he takes to the ice.