The American reporter, known for covering the NHL, tragically passed away along with her three children and family dog in a house fire in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.
The North American journalism community is in mourning after the horrifying incident that claimed the life of Jessi Pierce, a respected journalist specializing in ice hockey, and her three children. For the past ten years, Pierce had been covering the Minnesota Wild for NHL.com, the official site of the National Hockey League, which confirmed her death.
The fire occurred on Saturday. Firefighters arrived after neighbors reported smoke coming from the roof, but by the time they reached the home, little could be done. Greg Peterson, chief of the White Bear Lake Fire Department, confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and the cause of the fire remains unknown.
A Heartbreaking Farewell
The tragedy prompted an outpouring of condolences. Bill Price, vice president and editor-in-chief of NHL.com, wrote: “The whole team is devastated by the loss of Jessi and her children. Jessi’s love for her family and hockey was evident in the energy and passion she brought to her work; she was a true pleasure to work with. We will miss her dearly.”
The Minnesota Wild also shared a statement on social media: “Jessi was a kind and compassionate person who cared deeply about her family and those around her. She served as an ambassador for hockey while covering the Wild and the NHL.” Fans have flooded the post with messages paying their personal goodbyes.
Journalists, athletes, and public figures nationwide have expressed their grief. Jessi’s husband, Mike Hinrichs, who was at work during the fire, has received countless messages of support. Michael Russo, a reporter for The Athletic, shared: “Yesterday many tears were shed at the arena. Those of us working in Wild media will miss seeing Jessi every day, laughing with her. The press box will never be the same without her.”