In a recent junior hockey game, Richie Compo, a young star of the Junior Braves in Edmonton, endured a horrifying injury that has shaken the entire hockey community.
During the match, an opponent's skate blade sliced into Compo's neck, leading to a critical wound.
I was on the ice. He stepped on my head."
"I checked my neck, and my hand; there was blood. So I ripped off my helmet."
"I looked him dead in the eyes and said, 'Don't let me die. Please don't let me die. I don't want to die.'"
"There was no pain; it was just 'I'm dead.' That's all I could think: 'I'm dead.'" - Richard Compo, CTV News'
"I checked my neck, and my hand; there was blood. So I ripped off my helmet."
"I looked him dead in the eyes and said, 'Don't let me die. Please don't let me die. I don't want to die.'"
"There was no pain; it was just 'I'm dead.' That's all I could think: 'I'm dead.'" - Richard Compo, CTV News'
Game officials subsequently determined that the kick to Compo's neck was a deliberate act. Miraculously, the blade missed his jugular vein, but Compo had to undergo extensive medical treatment, receiving numerous stitches.
Community Outcry for Harsher Consequences
Despite the severity of his actions, the offending player, Nate Plaunt, was handed a mere three-game suspension. This light punishment sparked outrage, particularly from Compo's parents who believe that the repercussions were grossly inadequate.
"If this were to happen off the ice and he wasn't a hockey player, you'd be charged. Mistake, impulsive action, it doesn't matter. That impulsive decision could have taken my son's life."
"If this were to happen off the ice and he wasn't a hockey player, you'd be charged. Mistake, impulsive action, it doesn't matter. That impulsive decision could have taken my son's life."
"There are consequences for actions; they're not little boys. They're, you know, 18 to 21. They know right from wrong." - Peggy McMillan, CTV News
The case has now caught the attention of law enforcement, with a formal police investigation underway.
Further developments on this story will be provided as they unfold.
As seen on Blade of Steel - Parents Call for Arrest After Son Was 'Deliberately Kicked' in Neck During Hockey Game
Also read on PuckReporter :
Leon Draisaitl's suspension fate confirmed by NHL Player Safety
Leon Draisaitl's suspension fate confirmed by NHL Player Safety