Hockey world and beyond mourn after Humboldt Broncos tragedy


Thoughts and prayers and pouring in from across Canada and beyond in the aftermath of the devastating accident involving the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team on Friday night.

RCMP confirmed Saturday morning that 14 people were killed and 14 injured, some still in critical condition, when a truck collided with the bus carrying the team to a playoff game in northeastern Saskatchewan. The team’s coach and captain are amongst the deceased.

U.S. president Donald Trump paid his condolences via a phone call with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who also joined Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman in sharing their thoughts on the devastating crash.

Hockey Night in Canada host Ron MacLean travels the length and breadth of the country for Hometown Hockey and was solemn and supportive in his response to the tragic events, as was former Team Canada captain Hayley Wickenheiser.

Many NHL players, including Toronto Maple Leaf and Saskatchewan native Tyler Bozak, have offered their thoughts and prayers, some sharing stories and fond memories from their days riding buses in the junior hockey leagues, while Mike Babcock was visibility emotional speaking to the media ahead of the Leafs’ game in Montreal.

Meanwhile, Humboldt resident Sylvie Kellington, whose son played for The Broncos Bantam A team last season, started a GoFundMe campaign following the crash and the crowdfunding campaign has already raised over $180,000 in just 12 hours. The tragedy has also touched many beyond the hockey world.

Team president Kevin Garinger described the Broncos as a close-knit team.
Team president Kevin Garinger described the Broncos as a close-knit team.