Tragedy has struck the Ontario lacrosse and educational community as Matt Eckert, Assistant Coach of the Owen Sound NorthStars and a respected teacher in Walkerton, has tragically died in a devastating car accident.
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Fatal Accident Claims the Lives of Coach Matt Eckert and Four Students
According to an official statement posted on the NorthStars’ Facebook page, Matt Eckert passed away on April 29, 2025, following a horrific car crash. The accident occurred as Eckert and four teenage students were returning from a school sports event near London, Ontario.
Authorities have confirmed that the incident involved a serious collision at a rural intersection, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of London. The SUV, carrying all five victims, first collided with a transport truck, which then led to a secondary crash with another SUV.
Victims of the Crash Identified
The crash claimed the lives of:
- Two 17-year-old girls
- One 16-year-old girl (died at the scene)
- Matt Eckert, aged 33 (transported to the hospital but succumbed to injuries)
- Another 16-year-old girl (airlifted to hospital, later died)
All five were confirmed to be occupants of the same vehicle, and tragically, none survived the accident.
Emotional Tributes Pour In for Matt Eckert
Owen Sound NorthStars General Manager Reacts
Ethan, General Manager of the Owen Sound NorthStars, shared a heartfelt message:
“Our organization is heartbroken and crushed to lose an important member of our family. Matt connected with our players on a level that is indescribable. He is one of our coaches’ best friends. His infectious smile and caring heart are things that will never be forgotten. We love you so much, Ecky. Thoughts and prayers to his family, teammates, our players, and anyone Ecky connected with. Rest in peace.”
Welland Jr B Raiders Lacrosse Club Pays Tribute
The Welland Jr B Raiders Lacrosse Club also expressed their condolences on Facebook:
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the Family and Friends of Matt Eckert, who was killed in a traffic accident last night. Also to Matt’s Lacrosse family of players and coaches on the Owen Sound Northstars Junior Lacrosse Club. May he rest in Peace. Condolences also to the Family and Friends of the other three persons who died in the accident.”
A Community in Mourning
Matt Eckert was more than a coach—he was a mentor, teacher, and friend. His sudden loss has deeply impacted not only the lacrosse community but also the educational sector in Walkerton and beyond. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and mentorship will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Matt Eckert and the four young students serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life. As the community mourns this devastating loss, tributes continue to pour in honoring a man who gave so much of himself to others. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and everyone affected by this unimaginable tragedy.
Rest in peace, Matt Eckert. You will be deeply missed.