The hockey world has been rocked by the death of Canadian minor league player Orca Wiesblatt, who was tragically killed in a car crash over the weekend.
Wiesblatt, one of four brothers from a prominent hockey family, was involved in the fatal crash on Sunday in the Canadian province of British Columbia.
The 25-year-old spent four seasons with the Western Hockey League’s Calgary Hitmen before moving up to the pro ranks last year with the Athens Rock Lobsters, where he scored an impressive 42 points in just 37 games.
After signing for the Allen Americans over the summer, Wiesblatt was poised to debut for his new team when the 2025-26 ECHL season begins next month.
‘We are all heartbroken,’ said Allen Americans head coach and general manager Steve Martinson.
‘Orca was really looking forward to this next step in his hockey career. He wasn’t just skilled; he was a momentum-changing hitter.
The hockey world has been rocked by the death of Canadian forward Orca Wiesblatt, 25
Wiesblatt, one of four brothers from a prominent hockey family, died in a car crash on Sunday
His younger brother Ozzy (right) currently plays in the NHL with the Nashville Predators
‘I can still see his grin when he would return to the bench after one of his big hits. That is what we will miss the most, his infectious smile.’
The Wiesblatts are well known in the hockey community, with Orca’s younger brother Ozzy currently playing in the NHL with the Nashville Predators.
Two other brothers, Ocean and Oasiz, also played in the WHL or the AJHL before turning professional like Orca.
All four of them were born to two deaf parents, meaning they are fluent in sign language.
‘In many ways, Orca paved the path for his younger brothers, Ozzy and Oasiz, who followed him into the WHL and enjoyed great success of their own, both winning WHL championships,’ the Western Hockey League said in a statement.
‘As a family, the Wiesblatts have made tremendous contributions to the Western Hockey League.’
