Sean Kay and Angela Yang were on the brink of greatness. At just eleven years old, they had already won first place at the 2025 Midwestern Sectional U.S. Ice Dance Final, showcasing their incredible talent and dedication to figure skating. But their promising future was tragically cut short when their plane collided with a military helicopter near Washington, D.C., claiming the lives of all on board.
The accident sent shockwaves through the figure skating community. Sean and Angela were returning home from a developmental skating camp in Wichita, accompanied by their coach, Alexandr “Sasha” Kirsanov, and their families. Their loss has left a void that will be deeply felt by their loved ones and the skating world.
Angela’s journey to the ice began with a dream of finding a partner who shared her passion. Her mother, Lily, made the bold decision to move the family to Delaware so Angela could train with top coaches. Sean, on the other hand, discovered his love for skating through his older sister. His mother, Julia, a dedicated night nurse, homeschooled her children to ensure Sean had the time and resources to pursue his dreams.
Their victory at the Midwestern Sectional Final was a testament to their hard work and teamwork. They were preparing to advance to intermediate competitions and continue their rise in the skating world. But their dreams were tragically cut short, leaving behind grieving families and a community in shock.
The crash also claimed the lives of other skaters, coaches, and family members, including 16-year-old Spencer Lane and Russian coaches Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova. As the National Transportation Safety Board investigates the cause of the crash, the figure skating community has come together to honor the victims. Tributes have poured in from around the world, celebrating the lives and legacies of these young athletes.
Sean and Angela’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life can be, but also a celebration of the incredible impact they made in their short time. Their talent, passion, and determination will continue to inspire future generations of skaters.
