The figure skating community is grieving the loss of 23-year-old Julia Marie Gaiser, a talented and promising skater who died in a tragic road accident in Austria. Julia, originally from Brixen (Bressanone) in northern Italy, was cycling across a busy junction in Salzburg when she was struck by a truck on September 11, 2025.
Despite the rapid response by emergency crews, she was declared dead at the scene. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the crash, which involved a 47-year-old truck driver who tested negative for alcohol.
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Gaiser’s impact on figure skating was remarkable. She had represented both Italy and Austria, competing for the Salzburg state team and winning three consecutive Salzburg championship titles in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Her skating club, EisTeam Salzburg, paid tribute on Instagram, highlighting her talent, dedication, and warmth, describing her as a “ray of sunshine” and role model for young skaters.
The Mayor of Brixen expressed deep sorrow and offered condolences to Julia’s family, acknowledging her as both an outstanding athlete and a beloved community member. Italian Ice Sports Federation members also mourned her loss, noting her relatively late start in skating compared to peers but applauding her determination and resilience.
Julia’s death on the road a heart-wrenching reminder of life’s fragility and the fragility of promising futures lost too soon.
