Massapequa Mourns as Charity Game Ends in Heartbreaking Loss

Black awning with Funeral Home text above entrance

In a sorrowful turn of events, the Massapequa community grieves the untimely death of young hockey player Connor Kasin during a charity event.

At a Glance

17-year-old Connor Kasin died after collapsing during a charity hockey game.
The game honored Sabrina Navaretta, a local teen who died in a car crash.
Kasin was a senior at Massapequa High School and played for Sharks Elite Youth Hockey.
The New York Islanders High School Hockey League paused games to honor Connor.

Unfolding Tragedy at Charity Event

During a charity hockey game at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage, New York, 17-year-old Connor Kasin, a player for the Sharks Elite Youth Hockey team, suddenly collapsed and later passed away. The game was a tribute to Sabrina Navaretta, a teen who died in a car accident. Frenzied efforts by civilians and medical personnel, who performed CPR, could not save Connor’s life. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death as the investigation proceeds.

The Massapequa High School student’s unexpected passing has sent shockwaves of grief throughout the community. “It is heartbreaking to report that Connor did not survive. His passing is devastating to the Massapequa community, and we offer our deepest condolences to Connor’s family and friends.” This statement from Massapequa High School reflects the overwhelming loss felt by many.

NY high school hockey player, 17, dies after collapse on ice https://t.co/pEC8myIVmE

— Geoff Herbert (@deafgeoff) December 2, 2024

Community Mourns Together

Massapequa High School, where Connor was a senior, has opened its doors to offer grief counseling to students coping with this tragedy. The New York Islanders extended their heartfelt condolences to Connor’s family and the broader hockey community. Meanwhile, all games were canceled that Sunday by the New York Islanders High School Hockey League, a mark of respect and support for Kasin’s loved ones during this trying time.

John and Mara Navaretta, who organized the charity event through a foundation honoring their daughter, shared their condolences with Kasin’s family. “There are no words to convey our heartbreak that we feel as last night was supposed to be a fun night. The community came together to celebrate Sabrina’s life and our family’s commitment to help with scholarship, dog rescue and assisting grieving parents.” Yet another layer of grief compounds their sorrow and solidarity with the grieving community.

Investigation and Next Steps

Nassau County Police have initiated an investigation into the tragic event but do not suspect any criminality at this point. The sudden medical episode leading to Connor’s collapse during an intermission has not yet been explained, adding to the heartbreak and confusion among residents of the Long Island town. As the Massapequa community reels, they hold close memories of a young man described as “a coach’s dream” by his coach, Jeff Tempone.

The passing of Connor Kasin is a star reminder of the unpredictabilities of life, reminding communities of the need for compassion and togetherness in the face of sorrow. In preserving the memory of both Connor and Sabrina, the Massapequa community continues to rally forward in remembrance and resilience.