SPOKANE, Wash — The Spokane hockey community is continuing to support the local family whose five-year-old daughter died in a head on crash near Elmira last month. The Spokane Braves hockey team is hosting a benefit game to raise money for the Carollo family.
The Carollo Family Benefit Game is on Saturday, December 21 at 7 p.m. at the Eagles Ice Arena. Five dollars of every ticket sold at the game will be donated directly to the Carollo's.
On November 22, five-year-old Amelia died in a head-on crash near Elmira. Her mother Amanda and 7-year-old brother, Patrick, suffered critical injuries and were taken to the hospital. They were on their way to Patrick’s hockey tournament in Canada, but never made it.
The Spokane Braves hope the Carollo Family benefit game will have a big turnout to raise money in honor of Amelia and in support of her family. Team captain Cameron Oien said the Braves are proud to host something that’s bigger than themselves.
"Anytime you hear a tragedy like this happen, especially in the hockey community, it hits home," Oien said. "This game is about the Carollo family and helping them out."
Assistant coach, and general manager of the arena, Jason Greenwell said it will be more than just a hockey game. It will be about the community coming together for a good cause.
“We would love to see as many people as possible here and maybe sell the place out and really show that support," Greenwell said. "From me and just everyone here at Eagle Ice Arena, we can't thank the community enough for what they've done for this family.”
In a statement from Head Coach Mike Bay, he said, "The Spokane Braves are honored to support the Carollo family during this difficult time. The benefit game on December 21st against the Nelson Leafs is more than hockey-it's a chance to rally together as a community to honor Amelia's memory and help her family. Join us at Eagles Ice Arena to show your support and make a difference. Let's fill the arena with love, unity and compassion."
The Carollo family said Patrick has been released from the hospital and is recovering with his grandparents. His mother, Amanda, is expected to be released from the hospital this week, but she still has a long road to a full recovery.
Idaho State Police are still investigating this crash. And there are no updates at this point. Still, ISP is asking the public to share any videos or photos that can help in this investigation.