Tragedy Strikes Southern Alberta Mustangs: Three Young Hockey Players Killed in Car Crash

Three teenage members of the Southern Alberta Mustangs junior hockey team lost their lives in a devastating car accident while en route to practice. This tragedy occurred near Stavely, Alberta, around 11 a.m. when their vehicle collided with a gravel-hauling semi-truck.

Details of the Incident

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) reported the details of the accident involving three players:

• Caden Fine, 17, from Birmingham, Alabama
• Cameron Casorso, 18, goaltender from Kamloops, British Columbia
• JJ Wright, 18, forward from Kamloops, British Columbia

All three players were pronounced dead at the scene. The semi-truck driver, aged 40, sustained minor injuries and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Community Reacts to the Loss

In a heartfelt message on Facebook, the Southern Alberta Mustangs expressed their grief:

“It is with unimaginable heartbreak that we confirm the loss of three players… These young men were more than hockey players — they were teammates, sons, brothers, friends, and deeply loved members of our Mustangs family.”

The Kamloops Minor Hockey Association echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the loss profoundly impacted the entire hockey community.

Memorial and Support Initiatives

In remembrance of the young athletes, a memorial was set up at the Stavely Arena featuring their jerseys and sticks. The Mustangs organization is working closely with local authorities and offering support to the affected families.

National Response

The tragedy has resonated across Canada, prompting remarks from prominent figures including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who stated:

“My heart breaks for the families of the three young hockey players. Canadians are keeping the entire Southern Alberta Mustangs community in our thoughts as they face this unimaginable grief.”

Additionally, the Calgary Flames observed a moment of silence at their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs the following evening.

Looking Ahead

While the investigation into the cause of the crash by the RCMP continues, the focus remains on supporting the families and friends of the deceased players. The Mustangs are in their inaugural season within the US Premier Hockey League’s Premier Division and are facing a challenging time as they navigate this heartbreaking incident.

Both the Mustangs and local hockey associations are committed to fostering a sense of community among players, staff, and families during this difficult time.

Conclusion

This tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the strong bonds formed in the world of sports. The Southern Alberta Mustangs and those affected by this incident will continue to honor the memory of Caden Fine, Cameron Casorso, and JJ Wright as they seek solace in the support of their community.

For more information on the Southern Alberta Mustangs and to follow updates on the investigation, visit the Southern Alberta Mustangs official website.