Former Canadian Olympic skater Alexandra Paul killed in car crash

Skate Canada is paying tribute to a former Canadian Olympic figure skater who died in a collision involving seven vehicles in Melancthon Township, north of Shelburne, Ont., earlier this week.

Provincial police say Alexandra Paul, who was 31, was in a vehicle with her baby boy just after 3 p.m. on August 22 when a transport truck entered a construction zone on Country Road 124 and crashed into the lineup of stopped cars.

Police say her baby was taken to a children’s hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

A 67-year-old man was airlifted to a trauma centre in Toronto with serious injuries while a 45-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man were taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Skate Canada says Paul and her partner and husband, Mitchell Islam, won multiple international medals, claimed three Canadian Championship medals and competed at the 2014 Olympic Winter Games.

Skate Canada says Paul was a true role model for aspiring skaters, demonstrating the values of resilience, perseverance and sportsmanlike conduct.

“A shining star on and off the ice, Alexandra’s dedication, passion, and remarkable talents have left an indelible mark on the world of figure skating,” read a tribute posted on the federations website.

“Her commitment to excellence was matched only by her warmth and kindness, which endeared her to fellow athletes, coaches, and fans alike.”

Paul retired from competitive skating in 2016.