There is tragic news to report out of the hockey world this afternoon. A vehicle accident involving the national champion Gustavus Adolphus College women's hockey team has claimed the life of 19-year-old goaltender Jori Jones.
The Gustavus Adolphus College women's hockey team are the reigning NCAA Division III champions, and she had played in six games during the season.
The news report via The Star Tribune:
"The crash occurred about 12:40 p.m. Sunday about 20 miles west of Willmar on Hwy. 40 at the intersection with Hwy. 29 in Grace Township, the State Patrol said.
The women's SUV was heading east on Hwy. 40 as part of a tandem of three vehicles with teammates when it collided with a southbound minivan.
All four women were taken by emergency responders to Montevideo Hospital. Jori Lynn Jones, 19, of Little Canada, did not survive her injuries, the patrol said.
The SUV occupants who suffered noncritical injuries, were identified by the patrol as driver Gianna K. Gasparini, 19, of Lakeville; Kayla M. Bluhm, 20, of Chisago City; and Lily K. Mortenson, 19, of Champlin."
Jones had a "hard-working ethic that obviously came from her supportive family," head coach Mike Carroll said. "She fit right in [and] embraced her role" as a backup goaltender.
"We were very excited for Jori to get a lot more playing time" as a sophomore, he said.
Needless to say, this is a terrible tragedy. We pray for healing and peace for the family and friends that Jones leaves behind.
