Members of the Jasper U18 Bearcats hockey team are gearing up for a game next Friday following a tragic crash that claimed the lives of two teammates in Alberta. Kayla Peacock, 17, and Danica Hills, 18, lost their lives in a collision on Highway 16, about 10 kilometers east of Jasper. Peacock was driving, and Hills was a passenger, both pronounced dead at the scene by RCMP.
Described as best friends who did everything together, the two girls from Hinton had aspirations of living together in Edmonton after high school. Hills had been accepted into the University of Alberta’s engineering faculty, while Peacock aimed to attend MC College for hairstyling.
Both Peacock and Hills, also members of the Jasper U18 Bearcats hockey team, were returning home from practice and a team photoshoot when the accident occurred, according to Grant Bradley, president of Jasper Minor Sports. The incident has sparked discussions about the risks associated with travel for sports in remote communities like Hinton and Jasper.
The tragic crash comes shortly after a similar incident in southern Alberta where three hockey players lost their lives en route to a team practice. Road conditions are believed to have played a role in the fatal collision involving Peacock and Hills, highlighting the dangers young athletes face while traveling for sports.
The Jasper community plans to honor the memory of Peacock and Hills during a National Junior Hockey League game between the Edson Eagles and Hinton Canadians with a moment of silence and a fundraising raffle for the families. The Bearcats will play their first game without the two on March 6 against the Edson Sabres.
Hinton Mayor Brian LaBerge expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling it “shredding.” Peacock’s cousin shared that Peacock was the Rimbey Rodeo Queen and was looking forward to the upcoming rodeo. Hills, on the other hand, had a passion for fishing.
Both teenagers were known for their dedication to academics and athletics, leaving a lasting impact on their school community in Hinton. Grief counseling and mental health support are being provided to students and staff at Harry Collinge High School, where flags are lowered to half-mast in memory of the two Grade 12 students.
In the face of this tragedy, the district community mourns the loss of these bright young individuals, with Superintendent Kurt Scobie emphasizing the profound impact on all those affected by the devastating event.