Sports Journalist Jessi Pierce and Three Children Die in Tragic White Bear Lake House Fire
Jessi Pierce, 37, a prominent sports journalist, and her three young children—Hudson, 8; Cayden, 6; and Avery, 4—along with the family dog, tragically died in a house fire Saturday morning in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. The incident occurred at their residence on the 2100 block of Richard Avenue and is currently under investigation by the Minnesota State Fire Marshal's Office.
Incident Details
At approximately 5:26 a.m. on Saturday, emergency services received 911 calls from neighbors reporting visible flames through the roof of a single-family home. Firefighters from multiple locations responded to the scene and observed a fully involved structure fire.
During fire suppression efforts, an adult, three children, and a dog were discovered deceased inside the residence.
Fire Chief Greg Peterson of the White Bear Lake Fire Department confirmed Jessi Pierce, also known by her married name Jessica Hinrichs, as one of the victims. Authorities reported that smoke detectors within the home were activated and operational.
Investigation
The Minnesota State Fire Marshal's Office has assumed the lead in the investigation to determine the fire's origin and cause. Preliminary findings have indicated no evidence that the fire was intentionally set.
The White Bear Lake Fire Department stated its priorities include supporting those affected, conducting a thorough investigation, and ensuring first responders receive support. Fire Chief Greg Peterson requested community support during this period.
Victims and Family
The deceased were identified as Jessi Pierce, 37, and her children Hudson, 8, Cayden, 6, and Avery, 4.
Jessi Pierce's husband and the children's father, Mike Hinrichs, was reportedly out of town on a work trip at the time of the fire. A GoFundMe campaign established to support Mike Hinrichs had raised $146,000 as of Monday evening.
Professional Background
Jessi Pierce built a significant career in sports journalism. She contributed to NHL.com for 10 seasons, serving as a correspondent covering the Minnesota Wild.
She was also a co-host of the "Bardown Beauties" podcast and appeared on "Judd's Hockey Show." Pierce was a regular presence on Twin Cities radio, including SKOR North podcasts, where she covered both the Wild and the Vikings.
Her career included an internship at USA Hockey in Colorado and work for a newspaper in upstate New York. In 2024, she served as the emcee for the Minnesota Frost's PWHL championship celebration.
Statements and Tributes
The National Hockey League (NHL) issued a statement expressing condolences to the Pierce family. Bill Price, Vice President and Editor-in-Chief of NHL.com, stated that the NHL.com team was profoundly affected by the loss.
The Minnesota Wild organization also expressed sorrow and created a memorial at Grand Casino Arena, placing flowers and a stick in her media spot. Minnesota Wild General Manager Bill Guerin shared tributes following the deaths.
Colleagues and media personalities widely commented on Pierce's professional contributions and impact:
- Michael Russo (The Athletic): Noted the significant change her absence would bring to the press box and press room.
- Kirsten Krull (co-host, "Bardown Beauties Podcast"): Praised Pierce's exceptional work ethic.
- Judd Zulgad (colleague): Described her approachable and engaging approach to the hockey community.
- Jess Myers (sports journalist, St. Paul Pioneer Press): Mentioned a 15-year professional relationship through hockey coverage.
- Joey Reilly (technology director, Hobey Baker Memorial Award Foundation): Characterized Pierce as dedicated, noting her consistent attendance at foundation events.