By Troy Gillard (Twitter: @Troy_Gillard)

Hockey community mourns loss of Ryan McBeath

Mar 14, 2018 | 1:39 PM

Members of the hockey community near and far are mourning the sudden and tragic loss of one of their own.

Ryan McBeath, a 17-year-old forward with the Red Deer Optimist Chiefs, died Tuesday morning after the Jeep he was driving collided with semi near Torrington.

One of the most heartfelt messages shared on social media came from former Olds Grizzlys defenceman Matthew Holzer, who was a roommate and teammate with McBeath.

The Grizzlys, McBeath’s hometown team who he played three games for in 2016-17, also shared their condolences.

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“The Olds Grizzlys wish to send our most heartfelt condolences to Ryan’s family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all!” the team tweeted.

Many who didn’t know McBeath personally, including Red Deer native and Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Andrew Nielsen, also took time to honour McBeath.

Red Deer Mayor Tara Veer also shared her sorrow over McBeath’s passing.

The Red Deer Rebels will be honouring McBeath with a moment of silence prior to their home game tonight versus Lethbridge.