The figure skating world is in mourning following a devastating mid-air accident on Wednesday night, which claimed the lives of two Russian figure skating legends, Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, along with several rising stars in the sport. The tragic collision occurred between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. military Black Hawk helicopter, both of which crashed into the Potomac River.

Shishkova and Naumov, who were world champions in 1994, were on board the jet when the collision took place. The couple, married since 1995, were beloved figures in the skating world, known not only for their legendary careers but also for their commitment to the sport. After their competitive careers, they dedicated themselves to training and mentoring new generations of skaters in the United States.

The incident occurred as the plane, en route from Wichita, was approaching Runway 33 at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. It was part of a larger tragedy that also claimed the lives of a group of young, promising talents and coaches from the U.S. skating community who were returning from the National Development Camp in Wichita, Kansas.

The plane was carrying 64 passengers and crew when it collided in mid-air with a US Army helicopter just after 21:00 local time on Wednesday.

“Several” athletes, coaches and family members involved with US Figure Skating were on the flight, the sport’s US governing body said. It is yet to give more names.

Wichita hosted the US National Figure Skating championships from January 20-26. Following the competition, there was a development camp for young skaters.