The former Olympic figure skater Alexandra Paul has died at the age of 31 in a car crash, Skate Canada has confirmed.
Paul was involved in a seven-vehicle crash earlier this week in Melancthon Township, approximately 60 miles northwest of Toronto. Her baby son was also in the car and was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Three other people were injured in the crash. Paul was pronounced dead at the scene.
“During her illustrious career, Alexandra and partner Mitchell Islam won multiple international medals, claimed three Canadian Championship medals, and competed at the 2014 Olympic Winter Games,” Skate Canada said in a statement. “Her commitment to excellence was matched only by her warmth and kindness, which endeared her to fellow athletes, coaches, and fans alike.”
2014 Olympic ice dance champion Meryl Davis also paid tribute to Paul. “Alex had a grace about her that extended far beyond the ice. She always exuded such kindness and warmth,” she said.
After retiring from skating Paul gained a law degree and became a practicing attorney in 2021.
“We will miss her joyful personality and her intense passion for her work and her family. She was kind, curious, and driven in every endeavour she pursued,” the firm, Barriston Law, told Barrie Today.
Islam and Paul were a couple off the ice and married in 2021. Their son, Charles, was born last year. Islam works as a skating coach in the area and a fundraiser was set up to help the family raise $190,000 by Sunday morning.
