Fundraiser for NHL Reporter Jessi Pierce and Her 3 Children Surpasses $169,000 After Fatal Minnesota House Fire

A fundraiser created to support the family of NHL reporter Jessi Pierce has raised more than $169,000 following a devastating house fire that claimed the lives of Pierce and her three young children.

Jessi Pierce, 37, a respected hockey writer and podcaster, died alongside her sons Hudson, 8, and Cayden, 6, and her daughter Avery, 4, in an early morning fire on Saturday, March 21. The tragedy occurred at the family’s home in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.

Pierce’s husband, Mike Hinrichs, was out of town on a work trip at the time of the fire.

According to reports, firefighters were called to the home around 5:30 a.m. after neighbors reported smoke coming from the roof. When first responders arrived, the house was fully engulfed in flames. Pierce, her children, and the family’s dog were all pronounced dead at the scene.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

In the days since the tragedy, an outpouring of support has emerged from the community and the hockey world. A GoFundMe fundraiser organized on behalf of Hinrichs has already surpassed its $140,000 goal, with donations continuing to rise. The funds are intended to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial support during an unimaginable loss.

Organizer Diana Johnson-Salvador described Pierce as having a “larger-than-life personality” and a deep devotion to her family.

“She went above and beyond to create moments of joy and lasting memories for her children,” the fundraiser reads.

Just one day before the fire, Pierce shared photos of her children enjoying a sunny afternoon together, smiling as they ate ice cream and spent time outdoors.

The night before, she had been doing what she loved — covering a Minnesota Wild game for NHL.com from the press box, writing what would become her final story.

Colleagues, friends, and members of the hockey community have since paid tribute to Pierce, remembering her not only for her talent and work ethic, but also for her kindness and vibrant spirit.

Kirsten Krull, her co-host on the Bardown Beauties podcast, described Pierce as “like a big sister,” praising her unwavering support, strong work ethic, and compassionate nature.

“She was always there when you needed her,” Krull said, adding that Pierce was “the best mom” who loved her children deeply.

Her absence was deeply felt during the Minnesota Wild’s game against the Dallas Stars the following day, where fellow reporters noted the emptiness left behind in her usual seat.

Players who knew Pierce also reflected on her impact. Connor Beaupre, who often sat near her during games, said she brought passion and gratitude to every story she covered.

“She made an incredible impact on so many people,” he said. “We lost someone truly special.”

As the investigation into the fire continues, those who knew Jessi Pierce are remembering her legacy — as a dedicated journalist, a beloved friend, and a devoted mother whose love for her children defined her life.