Alberta Hockey Players Killed | Crash Tributes
A pall of grief has descended upon the small Alberta communities of Stavely and Nanton following the tragic loss of three young hockey players in a vehicle collision on Monday. The Southern Alberta Mustangs team, their families, and the wider community are mourning the deaths of JJ Wright, Cameron Casorso, and Caden Fine, who were en route to practise when the incident occurred.
A Community United in Loss
Jennifer Handley, a billet mom for the Mustangs and the mayor of Nanton, described the collective sorrow as “we grieve together.” Handley, whose family also hosts players, emphasized the deep roots of hockey within these communities, stating it’s “not just a sport, it’s generations of early mornings, long drives, cold drinks, and proud parents in the stands.” She affirmed the team and community will honor the memory of the three young men.
The Crash and the Victims
The collision took place around 11 a.m. On Monday at the intersection of Highway 2 and 55 Avenue, north of Stavely. According to RCMP reports, the vehicle carrying the players was travelling east when it collided with a semi-truck heading northbound on Highway 2. The driver of the semi, a 40-year-old man from Stavely, sustained minor injuries.
The victims have been identified as 18-year-old left-winger JJ Wright from Kamloops, B.C.; 18-year-old goalie Cameron Casorso, also from Kamloops, B.C.; and 17-year-old centre Caden Fine, originally from Alabama.
Outpouring of Support and Remembrance
An outpouring of support has followed the tragedy, with a memorial established outside the Stavely arena. Residents, including Karen Dubois, have been leaving flowers, candles, and jerseys to honor the players. Dubois shared a personal connection to the loss, having previously experienced the death of a nephew at a similar age and having a son who also played hockey.
Dale Ohler, of the Stavely Agricultural Society, which operates the arena, noted the profound impact on the community, stating, “It’s hitting everybody so hard. They just can’t believe this has happened.”
The Humboldt Broncos, who tragically lost 16 players and staff in a 2018 bus crash, also expressed their condolences via social media, stating, “There are no words – only heavy hearts. We stand with you. We mourn with you. We are with you.”
Looking Ahead
A benefit game is planned for Sunday, February 8, at the Stavely arena to support the families and the team. A GoFundMe account has also been established to help with travel, funeral costs, and other expenses for the players’ families.
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances of the crash. Alberta’s Ministry of Transportation has stated it will work with the RCMP and local officials to review the intersection, which has reportedly been the site of previous incidents, to determine if improvements are necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on Monday?
Three players from the Southern Alberta Mustangs – JJ Wright, Cameron Casorso, and Caden Fine – died in a vehicle collision with a semi-truck near Stavely, Alberta, while travelling to a team practise.
Where did the crash occur?
The crash occurred at the intersection of Highway 2 and 55 Avenue, at the north end of Stavely, Alberta, around 11 a.m. On Monday.
How is the community responding?
The community is deeply saddened by the loss, with a memorial established at the Stavely arena and an outpouring of support for the players’ families and the team, including plans for a benefit game and a GoFundMe campaign.
How will this tragedy impact the Southern Alberta Mustangs and the wider hockey community?