Michel Breistroff, French ice hockey player (d. 1996)

Michel Breistroff: A Promising Life Cut Short

Michel Breistroff, born on February 5, 1971, in Roubaix, France, was a highly regarded French professional ice hockey defenceman whose promising career and life were tragically cut short at the age of 25. His story is one of athletic talent, academic excellence, and a devastating loss that spurred a significant legacy of support for others.

Academic Prowess and Professional Hockey Career

Breistroff was not only an exceptional athlete but also a dedicated scholar. He achieved a notable academic milestone by graduating from the prestigious Harvard University with a degree in anthropology. This accomplishment underscored his multifaceted talents, balancing the demanding rigors of elite education with a burgeoning professional sports career.

As a formidable defenceman, Michel Breistroff was an active player in the professional ice hockey circuit at the time of his passing. He proudly represented the Gothiques d'Amiens, a prominent team in France's top-tier league, the Ligue Magnus. His commitment to the sport extended beyond club play; he also had the distinguished honor of representing his nation on the international stage. Breistroff was a key member of the France national team, participating in the highly competitive 1996 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships held in Vienna. This appearance highlighted his status as a valuable asset to French ice hockey, contributing to his country's efforts against global competitors.

The Tragic Loss: TWA Flight 800

On July 17, 1996, Michel Breistroff's life came to an abrupt and tragic end when he was a passenger aboard TWA Flight 800. The Boeing 747 aircraft, en route from New York to Paris, exploded shortly after takeoff from John F. Kennedy International Airport, off the coast of Long Island, New York. This catastrophic event claimed the lives of all 230 people on board, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in U.S. history at the time. Breistroff was just 25 years old, with his entire future ahead of him, a poignant reminder of the unforeseen nature of such disasters.

A Powerful Legacy of Support: AirCraft Casualty Emotional Support Services (ACCESS)

The profound impact of Michel Breistroff's death resonated deeply, particularly with his then-fiancée, Heidi Snow. In response to her unimaginable loss and the challenges faced by victims' families in the aftermath of aviation tragedies, Snow channeled her grief into a powerful force for good. She subsequently founded AirCraft Casualty Emotional Support Services, widely known as "ACCESS."

Established as an American nonprofit support group, ACCESS is headquartered in New York City. Its vital mission is to provide comprehensive assistance and emotional support to surviving family members of aircraft crash victims. Through ACCESS, individuals grappling with the aftermath of such devastating events can find a crucial network of peer support, resources, and advocacy. This organization stands as a testament to Michel Breistroff's memory, transforming personal tragedy into a lasting beacon of hope and practical aid for countless others experiencing similar profound losses.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michel Breistroff

Who was Michel Breistroff?

Michel Breistroff was a French professional ice hockey defenceman, born in Roubaix, France, on February 5, 1971. He was also an alumnus of Harvard University.

How did Michel Breistroff die?

Michel Breistroff tragically died at the age of 25 in the explosion of TWA Flight 800 off Long Island, New York, on July 17, 1996, while traveling as a passenger.

What hockey teams did Michel Breistroff play for?

At the time of his death, he played professional ice hockey for the French league team Gothiques d'Amiens. He also represented the France national team in the 1996 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships.

What is the significance of ACCESS?

ACCESS (AirCraft Casualty Emotional Support Services) is an American nonprofit support group founded by Michel Breistroff's fiancée, Heidi Snow. It provides essential support and resources to surviving family members of aircraft crash victims, serving as a lasting legacy to those lost in such tragedies.