Island hockey community mourns loss of 18-year-old Grant Gilbertson following fatal car crash

Peninsula Panthers forward Grant Gilbertson passed away following a fatal car crash on Monday evening.

West Shore RCMP responded to a collision on Sooke Road and Humpback Road at about 6pm last night, where it was determined that Gibertson had lost control of his car and swerved into the oncoming lane where he collided with a Ford Escape. Icy conditions are reported to have played a factor in the crash.

First aid was attempted by bystanders on scene, however the 18-year-old would succumb to the injuries he sustained in the incident.

Shortly before practice, Panthers owner Pete Zubersky received a call from Gilbertson’s mother who was worried her son may have been involved in the reported crash. Learning that he had yet to arrive at the arena, several team members and staff attempted to get in contact with Gilbertson. With no response given, Zubersky feared for the worst.

The news of his passing came in as the Panthers were wrapping up their final drills:

“It was devastating to say the least.” said Zubersky. “I am just so saddened by this situation and I know that Grant's family and friends have had their hearts ripped out. This is really a true tragedy in every sense of the word and our Organization's every thought, every second of every day is on Grant and his family."

The team plans to hold a ceremony in celebration of Gilbertson’s life and contributions to the Peninsula Panthers organization during their game on Wednesday.

The young forward had played the last two seasons with the Panthers, and was one of the team’s top scorers this season.

Hockey teams from around the province have began reaching out to extended their condolences to Gilbertson’s family and the Panthers organization:

We join the hockey community in mourning the loss of a talented young hockey player, Grant Gilbertson.

Sending our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Grant and the Peninsula Panthers team during this difficult time. https://t.co/Pvl5WZI11U

— Vancouver #Canucks (@Canucks) January 4, 2022

We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of @ppanthersvijhl forward Grant Gilbertson. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and the Panthers organization at this time. https://t.co/gi5oBiC2TZ

— Powell River Kings (@BCHLKings) January 4, 2022

We join the hockey community in mourning the loss of Grant Gilbertson.

The Victoria Royals organization sends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Grant and to the Peninsula Panthers organization during this difficult time. 💙💙 https://t.co/y2loSSnyDA

— Victoria Royals (@victoriaroyals) January 5, 2022