A tragic bus crash that has claimed the lives of 15 people has prompted condolences and prayers from across the country.
Saskatchewan RCMP has confirmed the fatalities, after the bus carrying the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team collided with a semi-trailer yesterday around 5 p.m. as the team was on their way to a playoff game in Nipawin.
There were 29 people on the bus in total, including the driver, according to RCMP. The 14 other passengers all suffered injuries and three of them are in critical condition.
In a statement released on the team's website, the team's president, Kevin Garinger, said the entire organization is mourning.
"Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the families of our staff and athletes as well as to all who have been impacted by this horrible tragedy," Garinger said. "Our Broncos family is in shock as we try to come to grips with our incredible loss."
RCMP says a gathering spot has been set up for families at the Nipawin Apostolic Church and they are encouraging them to go there for information and support. Humboldt mayor Rob Muench told our Golden West affiliate 107.5 Bolt FM that the town has set up a crisis centre in the Elgar Petersen Arena.
"We've got crisis people here, we're asking people that need to be with others or need support to come down to Jubilee Hall," Muench told Golden West reporter Jonathan Charlton. "We've got coffee set up here, and we're trying to get together and get through this."
Supporters launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised more than $3-million.
Condolences rolled in online, with many organizations, public figures, hockey teams at all levels and NHL players weighing in:
Thoughts are back in Sask tonight with the Humboldt Broncos and their families. Terrible tragedy.
— morgan rielly (@mriles4) April 7, 2018
Thoughts and prayers to the @HumboldtBroncos players, families, and everyone involved back home in Sask. The hockey community is with you. #prayforhumboldt pic.twitter.com/r24NeRVAtz
— Brayden Schenn (@Bschenn_10) April 7, 2018
The thoughts and prayers of the #NHLJets and all our fans are with the SJHL’s Humboldt Broncos, their players, staff, families and friends.
— X - Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) April 7, 2018
That's the end of tonight's game, and that's all it is, a game. The Brandon Wheat Kings organization sends our deepest condolences to the @HumboldtBroncos. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this terrible tragedy.
— Brandon Wheat Kings (@bdnwheatkings) April 7, 2018
Words can not describe the loss that we feel tonight.
— Scott Moe (@PremierScottMoe) April 7, 2018
From a grieving province, thank you to first responders & medical professionals for courageous response under the most difficult circumstances imaginable.
Tonight, we all must pray for these families.https://t.co/dEnhKMkDxJ
We are all here for you. Whatever. Whenever. ❤️ #prayforhumboldt pic.twitter.com/Vb4Mhj1N49
— Hayley Wickenheiser (@wick_22) April 7, 2018
The Oil Caps won tonight 2-1. However the game is secondary to the serious situation involving the Humboldt Broncos. #ThoughtsAndPrayers
— Virden Oil Capitals (@OilCapsHockey) April 7, 2018
Derek Grayson and Nick bonding and healing in hospital pic.twitter.com/DzesIoT27B
— R J patter (@rjpatter) April 7, 2018