Tragic affair. Skater John Coughlin, 33, United States pairs champion in 2011 and 2012, killed himself in Kansas City. The news was revealed by his family, before being confirmed by the American Skating Federation. “ We are shocked by the news of the death of two-time United States champion John Coughlin, announced the organization in a press release. Our condolences to his father Mike, his sister Angela and all his family. Out of respect for his family, we will not make any further comment at this time.. » Having become a coach and television analyst at the end of his athletic career, John Coughlin was provisionally suspended in December 2018, by his federation and by the American Center for Safe Sport (Safesport). But no details had then filtered out as to the nature of the facts with which he was accused. Safesport is the independent entity responsible in the United States for investigating accusations of abuse, harassment and other sexual violence in sport. This suspension was extended until further notice, two days before his death. John Coughlin was president of the International Skating Federation (ISU) Athletes' Commission, and a member of its technical commission for pairs events.
