TRIBUTES POUR IN FROM AROUND THE WORLD
As a small Saskatchewan community was thrust into an international spotlight after a catastrophic bus crash that claimed 15 lives on the Humboldt Broncos bus, tributes and condolences poured in from world leaders, national sports teams, musicians and celebrities. Here’s a sampling:
Prince Philip and I were saddened to hear word of the crash involving the Humboldt Broncos hockey team. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost so much, with their families and with all Canadians who grieve with them at this difficult time.” Statement from Queen Elizabeth
“We are heartbroken knowing many of those we lost had their entire lives in front of them ... To the entire Humboldt community: We are here for you. As neighbours, as friends and as Canadians, we grieve alongside you.” Statement from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted Saturday about a call to Trudeau “to pay my highest respect and condolences to the families of the terrible Humboldt Team tragedy. May God be with them all!”
“As a parent and a Saskatchewanian, it is hard to find the words to capture the terrible incident that took place overnight. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends who lost loved ones last night, and Jill and I are
praying for a speedy recovery of all those injured.” Statement from Andrew Scheer, Leader of the federal Opposition
“My heart goes out to the families and friends of those lost in this terrible accident. Hockey isn’t just a game. It’s something that brings all people together.” Perry Bellegarde, Assembly of First Nations National Chief, on Twitter
“My heart breaks this morning for the entire Humboldt Broncos community. I am sending so much love to everyone affected.” Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, on Twitter
“The Humboldt Broncos Jr ‘A’ Hockey Club tragedy extends beyond a small town, beyond hockey & has touched us all. A group of fathers, uncles, sons & brothers taken from us on their way to do what they loved. This loss is shouldered
by the entire Country.” Canadian rock band Nickelback, on Twitter.
“Waves of grief. Played against several of these boys on the national team. This is my province, these are our boys.” Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser on Twitter
In Winnipeg, the Jets and Chicago Blackhawks traded their usual jerseys for ones that simply read Broncos where players’ names normally would have been. The players stood side by side with on-ice officials for a moment of silence.
On Saturday in Texas, Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Marcus Stroman sported a cap with “Humboldt Broncos!” written on the side. Likewise, Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto, a Toronto native, playing in Pittsburgh, had
Humboldt his cleats. Broncos inscribed on
of “The those NHL who mourns perished the and passing offers strength while and travelling comfort to to those play and injured be part of a game they all love.” Statement from NHL commissioner Gary Bettman
“Sending all my thoughts and prayers to those impacted with the @HumboltBroncos bus crash.” Sheldon Kennedy, anti-abuse advocate and former NHL player, on Twitter
“It’s got to rip the heart out of your chest ... We pray for those families and think about them." Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock speaking to reporters
“The Boston Bruins send our thoughts and deepest condolences to the Humboldt Broncos, their families, and the entire Humboldt community. The hockey world is with you during this difficult time.” Boston Bruins on Twitter “There are no words to describe what has happened here.” Don Cherry on Coach’s Corner
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Humboldt Broncos organization and its families.” Saskatchewan Roughriders, on Twitter
The tragedy hit news headlines around the world, including the New York Times, Fox News, Kansas City Star, Minneapolis Star Tribune, Boston Globe, Washington Post, Huffington Post, Irish Times, New Zealand Herald, the BBC, The Guardian, Macleans and Time.