As a car crash occur, Maine hockey team face a tragic lost of Intelligent players and 20 years old younger player included.

As a car crash occur, Maine hockey team face a tragic lost of Intelligent players and 20 years old younger player included.

PALMYRA — A car accident near mile 155 on the Maine Turnpike resulted in the death of a Rhode Island woman Saturday morning.

According to Maine State Police, 20-year-old Tatiana Medeiros of East Providence, Rhode Island was traveling northbound on I-95 when her 2008 Toyota Matrix left the roadway and crashed into the median.

Orono, ME — The University of Maine and its hockey community are mourning the devastating loss of several players following a fatal car crash that occurred late Tuesday night. Among those killed were some of the team’s most intelligent and promising athletes, including a 20-year-old player known for both his skill on the ice and leadership off it.

The crash occurred on a rural stretch of Route 2, just miles from campus, when the vehicle carrying the players reportedly lost control and collided with a tree. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but tragically, multiple passengers were pronounced dead at the scene. One other remains in critical condition.

Young Lives Cut Short

While authorities have not released all names pending family notifications, the university confirmed that the victims were members of the Maine Black Bears men’s hockey team. The 20-year-old player, identified by teammates as a rising star, was expected to take on a leadership role in the upcoming season.

“He was the heart of our locker room,” said Head Coach Ben Barr in a tearful press conference. “He led with humility, intelligence, and drive. This is a loss we’ll never be able to fill.”

Teammates described him as an “old soul” — wise beyond his years, a mentor to younger players, and someone who “carried the team’s spirit on and off the ice.”

Investigation Underway

Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the accident. Early reports indicate that icy road conditions and low visibility may have been contributing factors. Authorities have not ruled out speed, though they do not suspect drugs or alcohol were involved.

The university has promised full cooperation with the investigation and is offering support to students and families affected by the tragedy.

Community Grieves

The University of Maine held a candlelight vigil on campus Wednesday night, where hundreds gathered in silence to honor the lives lost. Teammates and coaches embraced one another as they lit candles and laid flowers and hockey pucks in tribute.

University President Joan Ferrini-Mundy issued a statement saying:

“We are heartbroken. These young men were more than athletes — they were scholars, teammates, and beloved members of our community.”

Grief counselors have been made available to students, and flags will fly at half-staff through the week.

A Season Forever Changed

The future of the Black Bears’ hockey season remains uncertain. While some games may be postponed, coaches and players say the season will ultimately be played in honor of their fallen teammates.

“We’re not just playing for points anymore,” said one senior player. “We’re playing for them — for the brothers we lost.”