Orca Wiesblatt, a 25-year-old forward and brother of NHLer Ozzy Wiesblatt, was killed in a car accident in British Columbia over the weekend, his team announced on Monday.
The Calgary native was set to play for the Allen Americans of the ECHL this season.
Wiesblatt made his professional debut with Pensacola of the SPHL in the 2023-24 season and had a standout year in the Federal Prospects Hockey League with Athens, where he recorded 42 points in just 37 games.
Before making the jump to professional hockey, he spent four seasons in the WHL with the Calgary Hitmen, tallying 104 points in 138 games.
“We are all heartbroken,” Americans head coach and general manager Steve Martinson wrote in a statement. “Orca was really looking forward to this next step in his hockey career. He wasn’t just skilled, he was a momentum-changing hitter. I can still see his grin when he would return to the bench after one of his big hits. That is what we will miss the most, his infectious smile.”
The Athens Rock Lobsters, Wiesblatt’s former team, also shared their devastation, remembering him as a fan favourite and a great teammate whose contributions went beyond the stat sheet.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of former Rock Lobster, Orca Wiesblatt,” the team shared. “Orca will always be remembered for his energy, toughness, and infectious smile.”
The Hitmen also issued a statement, saying, “We are heartbroken for his family, friends, and everyone that knew and loved him.”
Along with his brother Ozzy, Orca also has brothers Ocean and Oazis, who are well-known in the Calgary hockey community.
Ozzy was selected in the first round of the 2020 NHL Draft by the Nashville Predators and made his NHL debut during the 2024-25 season. Oazis had a big season with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL, registering 103 points, while Ocean also spent the 2024-25 campaign in the FPHL.
The Americans plan to pay tribute to Wiesblatt on their opening night, on Oct. 24.
