The Minnesota hockey community and the city of White Bear Lake are mourning the tragic deaths of 37‑year‑old NHL reporter Jessi Pierce and her three young children after a devastating house fire early Saturday morning.
Pierce, known for her decade of coverage of the Minnesota Wild for NHL.com, was widely respected in the sports world and beloved by fans, colleagues, and players. The fire broke out at the family’s home in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, prompting multiple 911 calls from neighbors who reported flames shooting through the roof.
According to the White Bear Lake Fire Department, firefighters responded shortly after dawn and entered the burning home, where they located an adult, three children, and a dog. All were pronounced deceased at the scene. The victims were later publicly identified as Jessi Pierce, her sons Hudson, 8, Cayden, 6, and her daughter Avery, 4. The fire department confirmed that the children and their mother were found together inside the residence.
Investigators said early findings show no evidence that the fire was intentionally set, though the cause remains under active investigation with assistance from the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office. Officials emphasized that they are still in the early stages of determining how the fire began, and a full analysis of the structure and burn patterns is underway.
Pierce’s death has deeply shaken the hockey world. She was known not only for her reporting but also for her work as co‑host of the “Bardown Beauties” podcast and her frequent appearances on “Judd’s Hockey Show.” Colleagues described her as a passionate storyteller whose love for the sport and its community was unmistakable. The NHL released a statement expressing heartbreak and praising her dedication, energy, and kindness.
Her husband, Mike Hinrichs, was not home at the time of the fire. A GoFundMe organized on his behalf has drawn widespread support from fans, players, and media professionals across the country. Friends and coworkers have shared memories of Pierce as a devoted mother who balanced her demanding career with unwavering love for her children.
As investigators continue to examine the cause of the fire, the White Bear Lake community has begun placing flowers, candles, and hockey sticks outside the family’s home in tribute. The loss of Jessi Pierce and her three children marks one of the most heartbreaking tragedies the region has faced in recent years, leaving a void felt deeply across Minnesota and the national hockey community.