Fourteen people passed away on Friday when a bus in carrying a Junior A hockey team was struck by a semi-truck in Saskatchewan.
The Humboldt Broncos’ team bus was heading northeast of Saskatoon when it was t-boned before a game against the Nipawin Hawks, which was obviously cancelled. The incident occurred on Highway 35 near the town of Gronlid, roughly 30km north of Tisdale close to Highway 335.
28 people were on the bus, including the driver. Police have confirmed that three of the people are in hospital with injuries that are “critical in nature.”
Team President Kevin Garinger released a statement on the team website regarding the news.
“Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the families of our staff and athletes as well as to all who have been impacted by this horrible tragedy. Our Broncos family is in shock as we try to come to grips with our incredible loss.”
The Broncos play in Saskatchewan’s Junior Hockey League, which players 20 years or younger can partake in. Being the tight knit the community that the hockey world is, condolences and support came pouring in across the country late Friday and into Saturday morning.
If you’d like to lend your help or support, you can do so by donating to the GoFundMe account set up to help raise money for the team and the families affected by the tragedy. As of Saturday morning, over $176,000 has been raised.
Former NHLer and Saskatchewan native Colby Armstrong’s mother has opened up her house to family members with loved ones involved in the incident.
If you or someone you know effected by the incident needs assistance, you are encouraged to reach out to one of these services below.
Our thoughts and prayers are with those involved in the crash, as well as all the first responders, family members, friends, and staff associated with the Broncos.
