An 11-year-old boy tragically passed away several days after being struck by a puck in the throat during a minor hockey league practice in Saint-Eustache, northwest of Montreal. Saint-Eustache police confirmed the devastating news on Friday, expressing their deepest condolences to the grieving family, friends, and loved ones.
The incident occurred at the Walter-Buswell complex, prompting an immediate rush to transport the child to a Montreal hospital for treatment. Despite wearing the required protective equipment, including mandatory neck guards, the young player succumbed to his injuries.
A press release from the Saint-Eustache Minor Hockey Association conveyed profound sadness over the tragedy. Jean-Philippe Labrèche, the association’s president, acknowledged the overwhelming emotional support shown by many and extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family.
While the case is under investigation, authorities stated that there is currently no indication of foul play. The police have informed the Coroner’s Office and are actively assisting with the ongoing investigation to uncover the causes and circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
Hockey Quebec, deeply affected by the terrible incident, offered its support to the grieving family. Jocelyn Thibault, the general director, and Claude Fortin, the president of the administrative council, expressed shared sorrow with all those impacted by the tragedy in a statement issued on Friday.
Quebec’s Minister for Sport, Isabelle Charest, described the loss as “sadness without words” in a social media post. She expressed being “devastated” by the news and conveyed condolences and thoughts to the young player’s family, friends, and teammates.
D’une tristesse sans mots. Je suis dévastée d’apprendre le décès du jeune hockeyeur. J’offre toutes mes condoléances et mes pensées à la famille, aux amis ainsi qu’aux coéquipiers.https://t.co/XZBqjzW7FP
— Isabelle Charest (@IsabelleCharest) December 15, 2023
Following the heartbreaking incident involving the 11-year-old hockey player in Saint-Eustache, the City of Saint-Eustache has confirmed the availability of psychosocial support for the player’s teammates and loved ones. In a statement issued before the confirmation of the boy’s death, Mayor Pierre Charron expressed the city’s deep empathy and commitment to supporting the affected community and families.
“We have all been affected by this news. All our energy is currently focused on supporting the community and the loved ones of the families most directly affected by this situation. On behalf of myself and the City Council, I send my best wishes to this young sportsman and his family,” Mayor Charron stated in the Thursday release.
The Saint-Eustache Minor Hockey Association, recognizing the need for support during this difficult time, provided contact information for those seeking assistance. Individuals can call the 811 line or reach out to Sport’Aide at 1-833-211-2433.
As the community grapples with the profound loss, the provision of psychosocial support underscores the collective effort to help those affected cope with the emotional impact of this tragic event.