NHL Community Mourns Jessi Pierce and Her Children
The National Hockey League is in mourning following the tragic death of Jessi Pierce, a longtime correspondent for NHL.com covering the Minnesota Wild, and her three children in a house fire on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.
A Decade of Dedicated Coverage
Pierce, 37, had been a fixture covering the Wild for the past decade, known for her insightful reporting and passionate dedication to the game. She was a familiar face at games, often seen wrapped in a blanket in the press box at Grand Casino Arena, engaging with those around her.
Statements from the NHL and NHL.com
The NHL released a statement expressing its deepest condolences to the Pierce family. “The entire National Hockey League family sends our prayers and deepest condolences to the Pierce family on the passing of Jessi Pierce and her three young children,” the league said. “Jessi loved our game and was a valued member of the NHL.com team for a decade. We will miss her terribly.”
Bill Price, VP and Editor-in-Chief of NHL.com, echoed these sentiments. “The entire NHL.com team is devastated and heartbroken by the loss of Jessi and her children,” Price stated. “Jessi’s love of her family and hockey was evident in the energy and passion she brought to her operate for us. She was an absolute joy to talk to and work with. She will be deeply missed.”
Community and Coaching Reactions
Nashville Predators coach Andrew Brunette also offered his condolences following a game on Sunday, March 22, 2026. “I just wanted to pass on my condolences for Jessi Pierce,” Brunette said. “I’ve known her a long time…”
Details of the Tragedy
Firefighters responded to the house fire on Saturday morning after neighbors reported flames coming through the roof. Upon arrival, crews discovered an adult, three children, and a dog had perished in the blaze. The White Bear Lake Fire Department confirmed the deaths but did not immediately release the names of the victims. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
“Our hearts ache for those involved in this tragedy,” said White Bear Lake Fire Chief Greg Peterson. “We ask for the opportunity to allow our community to come together and support one another during this difficult time.”
Minnesota Wild’s Response
The Minnesota Wild organization also expressed their grief. “Jessi was a kind, compassionate person that cared deeply about her family and those around her. She served as an ambassador for the game of hockey during her time covering the Wild and the NHL,” the team stated in a social media post.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.