Photo: Instagram/@jessip224
The fire that killed NHL reporter Jessi Pierce and her three children is not being labeled as an arson case, according to "preliminary findings" in the ongoing investigation into its cause, the White Bear Lake Police Department confirmed in a media release shared on its Facebook account Monday (March 23).
“We are in the very early stages of the investigation, and our preliminary findings have not led to the any evidence that the fire was set intentionally,” the department said. “Our priorities are, first and foremost, being present for those directly affected by this tragedy, conducting a thorough investigation, and ensuring our first responders involved in this incident heal alongside the community.”
The department responded to a fire at a single-family home at 5:26 a.m. local time on Saturday (March 21). Neighbors noticed fire coming from the roof and told authorities that they believed people were inside the home at the time.
“Upon arrival, crews found a fully involved structure fire and immediately began fire suppression efforts,” the department said in an earlier release shared on Sunday (March 22). Jessi, 37, sons, Hudson, 8, and Cayden, 6, and daughter, Avery, 4, were later identified as the four people found dead by first responders.
Pierce was a contributor to NHL.com for the last 10 seasons and a fixture at Minnesota Wild games, having also worked for the team.
“The entire National Hockey League family sends our prayers and deepest condolences to the Pierce family on the passing of Jessi Pierce and her three young children,” the NHL confirmed in a statement shared on its official website Sunday (March 22). "Jessi loved our game and was a valued member of the NHL.com team for a decade. We will miss her terribly.”
The Wild also shared a statement following news of Pierce's death.
"The Minnesota Wild organization is heartbroken by the tragic loss of Jessi Pierce and her children," the Wild said in a statement. "Jessi was a kind, compassionate person that cared deeply about her family and those around her. She served as a dedicated ambassador for the game of hockey during her time covering the Wild and the NHL.
"Jessi and her children will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to their family, friends, and all who knew and loved them."