April 15, 2025 — In an unspeakable tragedy that has rocked the sports world, the entire New York Rangers hockey team is feared dead following a catastrophic plane crash late Monday evening. The team was en route to a scheduled playoff matchup in Toronto when their chartered flight went down shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport.
Authorities have confirmed at least 8 fatalities and 19 others injured, including crew members and team staff. As of Tuesday morning, no survivors have been confirmed among the Rangers’ active roster.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the aircraft, a twin-engine private jet, experienced “critical engine failure” shortly after liftoff. The pilot issued a distress signal before contact was lost. The plane crashed in a wooded area near Poughkeepsie, New York, sparking a massive emergency response.
“It’s a scene of absolute devastation,” said NY State Emergency Response Director James Lowell at a press conference. “Our teams are doing everything they can to recover and identify those on board. The Rangers organization and the NHL are being notified as we work to confirm all identities.”
The names of those confirmed dead have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
The New York Rangers organization issued a brief but emotional statement just after midnight:
“We are heartbroken beyond words. Our team, our brothers, our family — gone. We ask for privacy and compassion as we process this unimaginable loss. Our thoughts are with their families and loved ones.”
The National Hockey League (NHL) has suspended all games for the next 48 hours in a gesture of respect and mourning. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also issued a statement early Tuesday:
“This is the darkest day in the history of our league. We stand with the New York Rangers organization, their families, and their fans. The hockey community is united in grief.”
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the globe, as fans, players, and teams express their sorrow and disbelief on social media. Madison Square Garden, home of the Rangers, was lit in blue and red throughout the night as hundreds of fans gathered in silence outside.
Investigations are ongoing, and both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to provide more details in the coming days.
This is a developing story.
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