A memorial has emerged at the arena in Jasper, Alberta, to honor Danica Hills and Kayla Peacock, two young hockey players who tragically lost their lives in a car accident just hours after their final practice. The girls, both members of the co-ed U18 Jasper Bearcats hockey team, lived in Hinton, Alberta, approximately 75 km away. The local sports community is in mourning, and both players have been recognized for their positive contributions and spirit within hockey, being described as 'bright shining lights' by Jasper Minor Sports.

The president of Jasper Minor Sports, Grant Bradley, spoke about the impact that Hills and Peacock had on their community, noting that they had been playing on mixed teams in the area for several years and were well-respected among their peers. Their sudden passing is felt deeply not just by their immediate friends and families, but also by the larger hockey community that has followed their growth as athletes and individuals. The incident has prompted a reflection on the risks young athletes face during travel, particularly in winter conditions.

Canada has a history of tragic accidents involving young hockey players, most notably the Humboldt Broncos crash that claimed 16 lives in 2018. This latest incident brings to light ongoing concerns about road safety for youth involved in sports, especially in rural areas where travel is often necessary for practices and games. The sorrow felt in Jasper and Hinton serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the deep connections forged through sports, as the community rallies to support the families affected by this heartbreaking loss.