14 dead, 14 injured in horrific Canadian junior hockey team bus crash
The Humboldt Broncos’ team bus crashed Friday with 28 people on board.
A bus carrying the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team crashed Friday in Saskatchewan, Canada, according to a statement from the team. The bus had 28 people on board, including the driver. According to Canadian authorities, 14 people were killed and 14 were injured. The bus had collided with a truck while en route to a playoff game in the city of Nipawin.
In the team’s statement, general manager Kevin Garinger confirmed multiple fatalies. “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,” he said. “Our Broncos family is in shock as we try to come to grips with our incredible loss.”
The Broncos play in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League in western Canada. A review of the team’s roster indicates that most players are ages 19 and 20.
#prayforhumboldt pic.twitter.com/wQ20JgP9jm
— Gord Miller (@GMillerTSN) April 7, 2018
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Saskatchewan report that the crash occurred at roughly 5 p.m. local time on Highway 35. Humboldt is roughly 200 kilometers — or 120 miles — from Nipawin. Based on a map of the area and the RCMP’s report, the crash would have happened toward the end of the trip.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and several pro sports teams shared condolences on Twitter.
I cannot imagine what these parents are going through, and my heart goes out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy, in the Humboldt community and beyond. https://t.co/2cIn2CTy08
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 7, 2018
Our thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to the Humboldt Broncos and the families of those affected at this difficult time. The Canadiens and the entire hockey community grieves with you.
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) April 7, 2018
Thinking of the Humboldt Broncos and our friends in the hockey community at this terrible time. From Toronto to the Prairies, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) April 7, 2018
Our hearts are heavy this morning. The Boston Bruins send our thoughts and deepest condolences to the Humboldt Broncos, their families, and the entire Humboldt community.
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) April 7, 2018
The hockey world is with you during this difficult time.
The Pittsburgh Penguins send our thoughts and deepest prayers to the SJHL's @HumboldtBroncos, their families, and the Humboldt community. Hockey stands with you.
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) April 7, 2018