At the young age of 12, figure skater Brielle Beyer had already experienced a lot in her life, both on and off the ice. Tragically, Brielle was one of the victims of a plane crash in Washington D.C. on January 29, when American Airlines flight 5342 collided with an Army helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport. Brielle and her mother, Justyna, were returning from the U.S. National Development Camp in Wichita, Kansas when the accident occurred.
In a heartbreaking revelation, it was shared in an interview with ABC News that Brielle was also a cancer survivor. Her father, Andy Beyer, described her as a fighter who lived life to the fullest, especially in her passion for figure skating and singing. Brielle’s talent and spirit brought light and joy to their home.
Andy recalls the moments leading up to the tragic event, feeling unease as he awaited their arrival at the airport. The confirmation of their involvement in the crash brought immense grief and sorrow. As he copes with the loss of his wife and daughter, Andy has been honest with their 6-year-old son about what happened, trying to provide comfort and love during this difficult time.
Reflecting on his last conversation with Brielle, Andy expressed the deep bond their family shared through their dedication to figure skating. The sport had become a way of life for them, involving a community of coaches and skaters who were like a second family.
Tragically, Brielle was one of 14 figure skaters who lost their lives in the crash, which claimed a total of 60 passengers and four crew members. The impact of this loss has been profound, devastating the figure skating community and their loved ones.