In an unthinkable tragedy that has shaken the entire hockey world, CNN has confirmed that the Ottawa Senators were involved in a deadly plane crash earlier today while en route to the United States for the start of their annual North American spring tour.
According to early reports, the team’s private charter flight took off from Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport shortly after 6:45 a.m., heading for Pittsburgh, where they were scheduled to play a preseason showcase game against the Penguins. Approximately 45 minutes into the flight, air traffic control lost contact with the aircraft over upstate New York.
Search and rescue teams later located the wreckage in a wooded area near the Adirondack Mountains. Authorities have confirmed at least 21 fatalities, including multiple players and members of the coaching and support staff. Nine survivors were pulled from the debris and are being treated at area hospitals, several in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses in the area described hearing a loud explosion followed by smoke billowing from the treetops. Local officials are working closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Canadian Transportation Safety Board (TSB) to determine the cause of the crash, with preliminary speculation pointing to a possible engine failure during turbulent weather.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman addressed the tragedy in a somber press conference:
“The entire NHL family is devastated by the loss suffered by the Ottawa Senators organization. Our hearts go out to the players, staff, their families, and fans. This is a dark day for hockey.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also issued a heartfelt statement, calling the crash “a national heartbreak,” and declaring all Canadian flags would fly at half-staff for the remainder of the week.
Fans have gathered outside the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, laying candles, team jerseys, and flowers in tribute to those lost. The Ottawa Senators Foundation has announced the launch of a memorial fund to support families of the victims and survivors.
All NHL games scheduled for the weekend have been postponed out of respect for the organization.
This story is developing.
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