‘Beyond comprehension’: Two teen hockey players killed in highway crash near Jasper
Posted February 24, 2026 12:03 pm.
Last Updated February 24, 2026 6:47 pm.
Two Alberta teen hockey players were killed in a crash east of Jasper Monday evening, prompting an outpouring from community leaders and a local high school.
RCMP say the crash happened around 7:15 p.m., when a pickup truck collided with a semi‑truck on Highway 16.
Emergency crews from Jasper and Hinton responded, but the 17‑year‑old driver and 18‑year‑old passenger, both from Hinton, were pronounced dead at the scene. Police say road conditions are believed to have been a factor.
In a post to social media, Jasper’s mayor confirmed both teens were members of the Jasper U18 Bearcats hockey team.
“We are devastated to learn of the tragic loss of two young lives from our neighbouring community of Hinton,” said Mayor Richard Ireland said in a statement. “In addition to being residents of Hinton, they were also part of our Jasper family, their loss is felt deeply.”
“A loss of this magnitude is beyond comprehension.”
Harry Collinge High School in Hinton, where both teens were students, also confirmed the deaths.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the tragic passing of two of our Harry Collinge High School students,” the school said. “Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and the entire HCHS community during this incredibly difficult time.”
RCMP continue to investigate the collision.
The U18 Bearcats play in the North Eastern Alberta Hockey League.
Earlier this month, three members of an Alberta junior hockey team in Claresholm were killed in a crash while driving to practice. The province has said it is reviewing the intersection where the players were killed.
