Sports

Orca Wiesblatt, Calgary-born hockey player, dead in B.C. crash

By
Michael Franklin
and
Damien Wood

Published: 

Former Calgary Hitmen hockey player Orca Wiesblatt is dead at 25, after a crash in B.C. over the weekend.

The hockey world is mourning the loss of Orca Wiesblatt, 25, who died in a vehicle collision in B.C. over the weekend.

In an online statement, the ECHL (formerly known as the East Coast Hockey League) said the community is “heartbroken.”

“Orca was really looking forward to this next step in his hockey career. He wasn’t just skilled, he was a momentum-changing hitter,” said Steve Martinson, head coach and general manager of the Allen Americans, Wiesblatt’s current team.

“I can still see his grin when he would return to the bench after one of his big hits. That is what we will miss the most—his infectious smile.”

Wiesblatt had signed a contract with the Allens for the 2025-26 season after chalking up 42 points in 37 games with the Federal Prospects Hockey League’s Athens Rock Lobsters.

That team said he would be “remembered for his energy, toughness and infectious smile.”

Nanaimo RCMP say the crash happened just before 3 a.m. on Sept. 14, at Bowen Road and Pryde Avenue.

They say the driver of a Ford F-150 “veered off the roadway and struck a light pole.”

Mounties did not identify Wiesblatt by name at the time, only as a 25-year-old male.

He died at the scene.

He had a passenger, also a 25-year-old male, who was taken to hospital “for precautionary purposes.”

No other vehicles were involved, police say.

Police also say “speed, alcohol, and road conditions are believed to be contributing factors.”

Investigation is ongoing.

Calgary connection

Prior to turning pro, Wiesblatt spent four seasons with the Calgary Hitmen, collecting 104 points in 138 games.

The Hitmen also shared condolences to Wiesblatt’s family and friends in a statement on Monday.

“It is with great sadness that we mourn the tragic passing of former Calgary Hitmen player Orca Wiesblatt. We are heartbroken for his family, friends, and everyone that knew and loved him,” the statement reads.

“On behalf of the ownership, management, coaches, players, and staff of Calgary Sports and Entertainment, we extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies during this very difficult time.”

Wiesblatt was born in Calgary and his brothers, Ocean, Oasiz, and Ozzy, also play professionally.