On Sunday, tributes flooded social media as the hockey community mourns the heartbreaking loss of NHL reporter Jesse Pearce.
Pearce tragically passed away on Saturday, along with her three children, in a house fire in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.
She was a well-respected figure in the Minnesota hockey scene, known for serving as NHL.com’s Minnesota Wild correspondent for ten years while forming strong connections across the hockey world.
TNT reporter Jackie Redmond expressed her shock, saying, “I’m truly speechless. What a devastating tragedy.” She shared her sorrow about Jessie and her children, emphasizing, “We are praying deeply for her family, friends, and loved ones who are experiencing an unimaginable loss.” Redmond hoped Jesse could feel the love and tributes pouring in on social media, recognizing her talent and kindness.
Michael Russo from The Athletic remembered Pierce as “the most vibrant person,” noting her ever-present smile. He remarked that she had a knack for brightening people’s days with her cheerful demeanor, saying, “I have literally never met anyone who could be everyone’s friend.”
He added that she cherished her children—Hudson, Kayden, and Avery—and was a devoted mother. Just the day before the fire, she had been excitedly sporting her favorite Iowa State sweatshirt, looking forward to taking her kids to a local community event. Photographs from that day captured her joy-filled moments with them.
Pierce’s work as a journalist included contributions to USA Hockey, Minnesota Hockey Journal, and others, along with co-hosting the podcast “Bardown Beauties” with Kirsten Krull.
Krull reflected on their close bond, stating, “Jesse was like another sister to me.” She admired Pierce’s confidence, work ethic, and her unwavering support. Krull emphasized how much Jesse loved her children and family.
Krull also shared her struggle to articulate her feelings: “I don’t have enough photos, videos, or memories to share in one post… I hope you know how much you are loved.”
Emergency services received a call around 5:30 a.m. on Saturday about flames coming from the roof of Pearce’s home, with concerns that someone might still be inside. When firefighters arrived, the house was fully ablaze. After extinguishing the fire, they sadly discovered Pierce, her three children, and their dog deceased inside.
Multiple fire departments responded, and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office.
