A tragic accident claims the life of Alexandra Paul
Alexandra Paul, a former Canadian Olympic figure skater, has died in a horrific car crash involving seven vehicles. The 31-year-old was driving with her seven-month-old son Charlie when a truck smashed through a construction zone and hit a line of waiting cars. The accident occurred on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, just outside Toronto, Ontario. Paul was pronounced dead at the scene, while her son was taken to a children’s hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Paul was a successful figure skater who competed at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics with her husband and skating partner Mitchell Islam. They won several international medals and three Canadian championship medals during their career. They retired from the sport in 2016 and welcomed their son in January 2023.
Skate Canada mourns the loss of a shining star
Skate Canada, the national governing body for figure skating in Canada, issued a statement expressing their grief and condolences over Paul’s death. They described her as a “shining star on and off the ice” who had a “dedication, passion, and remarkable talents” that left an indelible mark on the world of figure skating.
They also praised her for being a “true role model for aspiring skaters” who demonstrated the values of “resilience, perseverance, and sportsmanlike conduct”. They said: “She was not only an accomplished athlete but also a warm and kind person who could illuminate any room she entered.”
Skate Canada said they were sending their thoughts and prayers to Paul’s family, friends, and everyone who was fortunate enough to know her during this difficult time.
A GoFundMe page raises funds for Paul’s widowed husband and son
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Paul’s friends to help Islam raise his son as a widowed father. The page also aims to cover the costs of funeral and commemorative services for Paul. The page has raised over $193,000 Canadian dollars so far, surpassing its initial goal of $150,000.
The page reads: “As a Canadian success story is tragically cut short, Alex will be remembered as a passionate, determined young lady who could illuminate any room she entered. She was an incredible mother to Charlie and devoted wife to Mitch.”
The page also thanks everyone who has donated and shared their memories of Paul. It says: “Your generosity and kind words have been overwhelming and have provided some comfort during this unimaginable time.”
