The Humboldt Broncos team bus was involved in a very serious car accident with a tractor-trailer. They were on their way to play the Nipawin Hawks. The team is apart of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) and on their way to play in Game 5 of the league’s semifinals. Reports say there are 14 fatalities and multiple other injuries. No more has been released.
Multiple Fatalities in Serious Accident Northeast of Saskatchewan
The accident took place on a rural highway roughly 30 kilometers (roughly 18 miles) north of Tisdale, Saskatchewan, on Highway 35.
Nipawin Hawks president, Darren Opp, told reporters that the semi T-Boned the bus, though officials haven’t confirmed that. Two air ambulance helicopters responded, flying in from Saskatoon and Regina.
This is eerily similar to a crash in 1986 involving the WHL’s Swift Current Broncos in 1986. The crash took place about four kilometers east of Swift Current. A memorial now stands at that site, remembering the four players who sadly died in the crash. Sheldon Kennedy, an AHL and NHL veteran, was a rookie player for the Broncos in 1986. He shared his best wishes with the team, via social media, shortly after the crash.
For those nearby and in need, the Nipawin Apostolic Church, located at 109 – 4th Ave. East is currently serving as a gathering place for friends and family.
The SJHL is also asking for people to refrain from any messages at the moment. More details are to come. SJHL Chairman of the Board said, “We’re just waiting to hear [more details].” The league will make a statement following more information.
