Danica Hills, 18, and Kayla Lorene Peacock, 17, of Hinton, Alberta, tragically passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026, as the result of a motor vehicle collision on Highway 16 east of Jasper.
Kayla and Danica were teammates on the Jasper U18 Bearcats hockey team in the North Eastern Alberta Hockey League (NEAHL), where they proudly wore jerseys #15 and #19. Both were students at Harry Collinge High School, where they were known not only for their athletic dedication but also for their kindness, friendship, and bright spirits.
According to the RCMP, emergency crews responded to the scene at approximately 7:15 p.m. following a collision involving a pickup truck and a semi-truck. Kayla, who was driving, and Danica, who was a passenger, were declared deceased at the scene. The driver of the semi was not injured. Road conditions are believed to have been a contributing factor.
The loss of these two young women has left an immeasurable void in their families, their school, and the broader hockey community. Teammates, coaches, classmates, and friends remember them as shining lights on and off the ice — dedicated athletes, supportive teammates, and cherished friends.
Jasper Minor Sports expressed the heartbreak felt throughout the hockey community, noting there are no words to describe the depth of the loss. Support services were immediately arranged for teammates and families, with grief counselling resources made available to students and community members.
The Grande Yellowhead Public School Division shared its deep sorrow and mobilized trauma response teams to assist students and staff. Classes at Harry Collinge High School were cancelled as the school community gathered in support and remembrance.
Danica and Kayla will be remembered for their passion for hockey, their determination, and the joy they brought to those around them. Their lives, though far too short, left a lasting impact on teammates, teachers, family, and friends.
They are deeply mourned by their families, their Jasper U18 Bearcats teammates, their school community, and the many towns across northeastern Alberta that now grieve together.
Their memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.
