Once again the AAA hockey team face a tragic Lost and fans sheds tears as they lost their intelligent players in a cruel accident.

Once again the AAA hockey team face a tragic Lost and fans sheds tears as they lost their intelligent players in a cruel accident.

By Staff Reporter
May 13, 2025 – Minneapolis, Minnesota

The AAA hockey world is reeling from an unthinkable tragedy after two of its most talented young players were killed in a violent car accident over the weekend. The crash, which occurred early Saturday morning outside of Minneapolis, claimed the lives of 16-year-old defenseman Luke Daniels and 17-year-old forward Mason Grant—both rising stars in the North River Wolves AAA program.

Described by coaches, teammates, and fans as “brilliant minds on the ice,” Luke and Mason were considered among the most intelligent and promising athletes in their age division. Their deaths have sparked an overwhelming wave of grief across Minnesota’s close-knit hockey community, where they were admired not only for their skill but also for their sportsmanship and leadership.

A Cruel Accident

The crash occurred on a rural highway as the two boys were carpooling to an early-morning team practice. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, their vehicle was struck head-on by an SUV traveling the wrong way in a suspected DUI incident. Both players died at the scene. The driver of the SUV survived and is currently in custody. Charges are expected to follow pending toxicology reports.

“This was an avoidable, senseless tragedy,” said Trooper Matt Kirsch. “Two lives lost to a decision that should never have been made.”

The driver of the boys’ vehicle, a team parent who was volunteering to transport players, remains hospitalized with serious injuries.

Shockwaves Through the Hockey Community

The North River Wolves, one of the Midwest’s premier AAA hockey programs, canceled all scheduled games and practices indefinitely as the organization grapples with the loss. A memorial space has been established at the team’s training facility, where teammates and fans have left flowers, jerseys, letters, and candles in tribute.

“This is the darkest day in our club’s history,” said head coach Trent Madsen in a solemn press conference. “Luke and Mason were the heartbeat of this team—on the ice and in the locker room. Their intelligence, passion, and love for the game were unmatched. We are devastated.”

Coach Madsen, who has coached both boys since their early teens, described them as “hockey scholars,” students of the game who not only executed plays with precision but studied systems, mentored younger teammates, and constantly pushed to improve.

“They didn’t just play the game—they understood it on a level far beyond their years.”

Gone Too Soon

Luke Daniels, a junior at Eden Prairie High School, had already been invited to multiple junior development camps and was drawing interest from college scouts for his high hockey IQ, pinpoint passing, and elite decision-making as a blue-liner.

“He was calm under pressure, always thinking three steps ahead,” said assistant coach Ryan Murphy. “You couldn’t teach what Luke had—it was natural.”

Mason Grant, a senior at Maple Grove High School, was known for his creativity with the puck and his role as an emotional leader. He captained his school team and was widely considered a top prospect for the USHL draft.

“Mason was a genius on the ice,” said longtime teammate Jordan Voss. “He read the game like a chessboard. He made everyone around him better.”

Fans and Families in Mourning

Hundreds gathered Sunday evening at the Wolves’ arena for a candlelight vigil. Emotional speeches were made by coaches, players, and parents, many of whom described the boys as role models and big brothers to younger teammates.

“There’s a hole in our hearts that can’t be filled,” said Luke’s mother, Karen Daniels. “But we are proud of the son we raised. He lived with love, played with passion, and made a difference.”

Mason’s father, Tony Grant, thanked the community for its support and asked that people remember his son’s “grit, grace, and brilliance.”

“He had dreams bigger than the rink. But the rink is where he shined.”

Tributes from Across the Country

The tragedy has drawn national attention, with hockey programs from across the U.S. and Canada sending messages of support. NHL players and teams, including the Minnesota Wild and Winnipeg Jets, shared tributes on social media.

Minnesota Wild defenseman Jonas Brodin wrote:

“Heartbroken to hear about Luke and Mason. You inspired more than you knew. Rest in peace, boys.”

The USHL issued a statement expressing “profound sadness” and pledged to honor the players during upcoming league games with pre-game moments of silence and helmet decals.

Investigation and Accountability

The Minnesota State Patrol confirmed that the SUV driver who caused the accident has prior DUI offenses and was driving with a suspended license. Legal experts say felony charges including vehicular homicide are likely.

“This crash wasn’t just tragic—it was criminal,” said Hennepin County Prosecutor Sarah Enloe. “And justice must be pursued.”

The families of both victims have called for stricter enforcement of DUI laws and are considering advocacy campaigns in their sons’ memory.

“If Mason’s legacy can help stop another drunk driver from getting behind the wheel,” said his father, “then we’ll know his voice still carries.”

Honoring a Legacy

The North River Wolves plan to establish annual scholarships in Luke’s and Mason’s names to support youth players who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership.

“We want their brilliance to live on in others,” said Coach Madsen.

The team is also planning a memorial game later this spring to raise funds for the scholarship foundation. Both families will be honored at center ice.

Despite their immense loss, Luke and Mason’s teammates have vowed to keep playing—for them.

“We will carry them with us every shift, every game,” said team captain Logan Price. “This season is for them.”

A Community United in Grief

As the hockey world pauses to mourn, the lives of Luke Daniels and Mason Grant serve as powerful reminders of both the promise of youth and the fragility of life. Their legacy—defined not just by goals and assists, but by intellect, heart, and humility—will continue to inspire those who lace up their skates and chase their dreams.

And while the rink feels colder without them, their spirit will remain—etched in the ice, carried in the hearts of their teammates, and remembered by a community that will never forget.