Jessi Pierce, a beloved NHL reporter and co-host of the Bardown Beauties podcast, and her three young children were tragically killed in a devastating house fire in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, early on Saturday morning, March 24, 2026. Pierce, 37, and her children — Hudson, 8, Cayden, 6, and Avery, 4 — perished when the fire engulfed their home. A dog was also found deceased at the scene.
A Shocking Discovery: Fire and Grief 💔
The White Bear Lake Fire Department responded to a 911 call from neighbors who witnessed flames pouring from the roof of the house. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, the fire claimed the lives of the mother and her children. The incident has left the community in shock, with friends, family, and colleagues struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss.
Kirsten Krull, Jessi’s co-host on the Bardown Beauties podcast, opened up about the haunting moment she learned of the tragedy. “I feel like the last few days have been a nightmare,” Krull said. “I lost not only somebody who I considered a big sister, but her three little kids and her dog too.”
The Last Conversation: A Sisterly Bond 💬
Krull, who had worked closely with Jessi for years, remembered the last time they spoke just hours before the fire. “We were texting a little bit during the game. That was the last time I talked to her,” Krull recalled. Jessi had even complimented Krull’s hair, a small but personal exchange that now carries immense emotional weight.
Jessi had shared images on social media of her children enjoying a day out at a local ice cream shop, hours before the fire broke out. “They were so happy. It’s just heartbreaking to think of how quickly their lives were taken,” Krull added.
Remembering Jessi and Her Children 🌟
Jessi Pierce was widely respected in the hockey world, especially for her coverage of the Minnesota Wild. She had been a dedicated journalist for over a decade and built deep relationships within the industry. Krull recalled how Jessi had a unique ability to make everyone feel like they were her best friend. “She had a way of making everybody feel that she was their best friend. She made everybody feel seen and loved. She truly was a light in every room she walked in.”
Her legacy extends beyond her work in journalism, as she was a devoted mother whose children were always her priority. “They were never an afterthought,” Krull said, describing Jessi’s deep love for her family.
Support for Mike Hinrichs: GoFundMe Campaign Launched 💰
Jessi’s husband, Mike Hinrichs, who was away on business at the time of the fire, is left to grieve the loss of his wife and three children. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help Mike with funeral expenses and support him during this unimaginable time. The campaign has already raised nearly $220,000, with a goal of $250,000.
“Mike is going to need all the support moving forward,” Krull said. “He was an amazing husband, an amazing father. It just breaks my heart knowing that he’s dealing with the worst thing that could have happened to him right now.”
A Community in Mourning 🖤
As the hockey community and loved ones mourn this devastating loss, the memories of Jessi’s warmth, kindness, and professionalism will continue to live on. Jessi’s family and friends have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and kindness during this incredibly difficult time.
