The hockey journalism community is mourning the devastating loss of NHL correspondent Jessi Pierce who died alongside her three young children in a house fire that destroyed their White Bear Lake home during the early morning hours of Saturday.

Emergency responders were called to the 2100 block of Richard Avenue at around 5:26 a.m. after receiving reports of a structure fire. Neighbors described seeing flames coming through the roof of the house as the fire grew stronger.

When firefighters arrived, they found the house completely engulfed in flames. Tragically, first responders discovered Pierce, her three children Hudson, Cayden and Avery and the family dog deceased inside the home.

White Bear Lake Fire Chief Greg Peterson confirmed that smoke detectors were working at the time of the fire and could be heard going off during the emergency response.

“Our hearts ache for those involved in this tragedy,” Chief Peterson stated. “We ask for the opportunity to allow our community to come together and support one another during this difficult time.”

The Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office has taken over the investigation into what caused the fire and how it started. As of this writing, authorities have not publicly released information about what sparked the deadly blaze.

NHL and Minnesota Wild issue statements after Jessi Pierce’s tragic demise

Jessi Pierce built a notable career in sports media serving as the Minnesota Wild correspondent for NHL.com for ten years. She was a regular presence in the press box at Grand Casino Arena.

Following the tragic incident, the NHL released an official statement expressing the organization’s deep sorrow:

“The entire National Hockey League family sends our prayers and deepest condolences to the Pierce family on the passing of Jessi Pierce and her three young children. Jessi loved our game and was a valued member of the NHL.com team for a decade. We will miss her terribly.”

The Minnesota Wild organization issued its own tribute remembering Pierce:

“The Minnesota Wild organization is heartbroken by the tragic loss of Jessi Pierce and her children. Jessi was a kind, compassionate person that cared deeply about her family and those around her. She served as a dedicated ambassador for the game of hockey during her time covering the Wild and the NHL. Jessi and her children will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to their family, friends, and all who knew and loved them.”

Jessi Pierce’s byline has appeared in many prestigious publications including USA Hockey, Minnesota Hockey Journal, Massachusetts Hockey, The Athletic and the B1G Ice Hockey blog.

Beyond print journalism, Pierce made regular appearances on Twin Cities sports talk stations SKOR North and KFAN. She also co-hosted the Bardown Beauties hockey podcast alongside Kirsten Krull.