A GoFundMe donation page has nearly reached its goal of $250,000 for the family of NHL reporter Jessi Pierce and her three children, all of whom died in a fire at their Minnesota home Saturday.
As of late Wednesday morning, more than $206,000 has been raised to cover funeral expenses and provide financial support for Pierce’s husband, Mike Hinrichs.
Pierce, 37, her young children Hudson, Cayden, and Avery, and the family dog died in the fire.
The children reportedly were ages 4, 6, and 8.
Her husband was out of town on a work trip at the time of the fire, The Athletic reported.
The White Bear Lake Fire Department was called to the home on Richard Avenue just before 5:30 a.m. Saturday.
“Neighbors that made the 911 call reported seeing fire coming through the roof of the house and stated there were likely people inside of the house,” the fire department said in a release Monday.
Peterson explained that the department has ruled out arson at this point.
“We are in the very early stages of the investigation, and our preliminary findings have not led to the any evidence that the fire was set intentionally,” Peterson said. “Our priorities are, first and foremost, being present for those directly affected by this tragedy, conducting a thorough investigation, and ensuring our first responders involved in this incident heal alongside the community.”
Pierce was a contributor to NHL.com for the past 10 seasons and covered Minnesota Wild.
She was also the co-host of the “Bardown Beauties” podcast with Wild in-game host Kirsten Krull.
“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,” the NHL said in a statement.
“Jessi loved our game and was a valued member of the NHL.com team for a decade. We will miss her terribly.”
