Initial Findings Revealed in Fire That Claimed Jessi Pierce and Her Three Children – Details

She was known for her passion — for her work, her family, and her community. Days after her final post, a tragic fire took her life and those of her children. Authorities are now working to determine the cause.

A quiet suburban morning turned into an unspeakable nightmare — flames tearing through a family home, desperate neighbors dialing 911, and inside, a beloved sports journalist, Jessi Pierce, and her three young children trapped in what would become a heartbreaking tragedy.

Authorities are continuing to investigate a house fire that claimed the lives of Pierce and her three children. Pierce, 37, died Saturday, March 21, in the fire at her home. The incident has drawn attention across the hockey community, where she was known for her work covering the sport in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

"The entire National Hockey League family sends our prayers and deepest condolences to the Pierce family," the NHL said in a statement. "Jessi loved our game and was a valued member of the NHL.com team for a decade."

A Devastating Loss Sends Shockwaves Through Hockey Community

Local officials say the investigation is still in its early stages. In a statement, the White Bear Lake Fire Department said preliminary findings have not uncovered any evidence that the fire was intentionally set.

"We are in the very early stages of the investigation, and our preliminary findings have not led to any evidence that the fire was set intentionally," the department said. "The cause of the fire is still under investigation."

Fire officials said they are working alongside the Minnesota State Fire Marshal's Office to determine what led to the incident. The department also emphasized its focus on supporting those affected.

"Our priorities are… being present for those directly affected by this tragedy [and] conducting a thorough investigation," the statement said. Officials noted that first responders and members of the community are also receiving support as they process the incident. As the investigation continues, authorities say more information will be released once the cause of the fire is confirmed.

Flames, Panic, and a Desperate 911 Call

Further details from officials have provided a clearer picture of how the incident unfolded. According to the White Bear Lake Fire Department, crews were dispatched to the home just before 5:30 a.m. on Saturday after receiving reports of a fire at a single-family residence on Richard Avenue.

Neighbors who called 911 said they saw flames coming through the roof and believed people were inside. When firefighters arrived, they encountered what officials described as a "fully involved structure fire" and began efforts to contain it.

During their search, crews found one adult and three children deceased inside the home. Fire Chief Greg Peterson later confirmed that the adult victim was Pierce. A family dog was also found dead at the scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. As the community processes the loss, colleagues and members of the hockey world have shared tributes highlighting Pierce's impact.

She had worked as a contributor for the NHL for the past decade and was a regular presence at Minnesota Wild games. Known for her consistent coverage and familiarity with the team, she also worked directly with the Wild organization.

Tributes Pour in for a 'Wonderful Person'

"The entire NHL.com team is devastated and heartbroken," said Bill Price, NHL's Editor-in-Chief. "Jessi's love of her family and hockey was evident in the energy and passion she brought to her work." Others who knew her through the sport also reflected on her presence.

"I've known her a long time," Nashville Predators coach Andrew Brunette said. "She was a wonderful person… always with a smile." Those close to Pierce said she often spoke about her children and took pride in their lives. At times, she brought them along to work, balancing her career and family life.

As investigators continue to examine the cause of the fire, tributes continue to focus on both her professional contributions and her role as a parent. Following the fire department's update, members of the community also shared messages of support and gratitude.

"Thank you all for everything you do for our community," one person wrote. Another added, "Thank you Chief. I am so glad to hear that first responders are also being provided with some help to deal with this tragedy."

A Final Photo That Now Carries Haunting Meaning

In the days before the fire, Pierce had shared a glimpse of her family life. On March 20, she posted what would become her final photo on X. The image showed her three children during a casual outing, smiling as they enjoyed ice cream and a hot dog.

Pierce's husband, Mike Hinrichs, also released a statement reflecting on her life. "Jessi was beautiful, vibrant, and full of life," he said. "She lit up every room she walked into and made everyone feel welcome."

Colleagues in the hockey community have shared similar sentiments. Kirsten Krull, who co-hosted the Bardown Beauties podcast with Pierce, described her as a close friend and mentor. "Family isn't always blood, but the people you choose," Krull said. "She had a confidence… an unmatched work ethic and a huge heart."

As tributes continue, those who knew Pierce have focused on both her professional contributions and her role within her family and community.