Connecticut hockey player dies after injury sustained in game

The incident occurred Thursday evening at Brunswick School, officials said. (Photo by Getty Images)

A high school hockey player has passed away as a result of an injury sustained on the ice Thursday night during a game between Brunswick School and St. Luke’s School in Greenwich, Conn., police said.

The incident occurred in a JV game at Hartong Rink, per the team schedule posted online, as Brunswick hosted St. Luke’s, a private, co-educational school located in New Canaan, Conn. The game began at approximately 5 p.m.

According to a statement from the Greenwich Police Department, “a player from the other team fell to the ice,” during the normal course of the game.

“Another player who was near the downed player was unable to stop, and collided with the player who fell,” said Greenwich Capt. Mark Zuccerella.

Once the injury became clear, the game was halted and 911 was called.

The unnamed St. Luke’s player was rushed to Greenwich Hospital, and “died as a result of the injury,” Zuccerella said.

“We are devastated; an unimaginable tragedy,” Brunswick Head of School Thomas Philip said in a statement to WTNH News 8 on Thursday night.

“I have, of course, met with the Head of School at St Luke’s and have contacted the boy’s family to offer whatever help, support, or assistance we can during such a challenging time. Please keep all concerned in your prayers. Out of respect for the family, we will have no further comment at this time,” Philip said.

The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC), the state’s governing body of high school sports, expressed its condolences via Twitter Friday morning, writing, “The CIAC extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the St. Luke’s hockey player and the St. Luke’s community for their tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all impacted by this tragedy.”

As of Friday morning, the Greenwich Police Department will not be releasing any more information, Zuccerella said.

St. Luke’s and Brunswick could not be directly reached for comment at the time of publication. Both schools are closed on Friday due to the winter storm.

Editor’s note: This story will be updated as further details emerge.