After further investigation, the body recovered from Stadner River off Mill Road belongs to senior hockey phenom Lee Stevens, who has been missing since November 14.
As of now, no foul play is suspected and the death is being treated as accidental. The county coroner’s office has ruled the unfortunate incident as a “death by misadventure.” However, sources close to the situation have stated Mr. Stevens’ blood alcohol content was measured at over 0.15. Eyewitnesses at the scene of the recovery described Mr. Stevens as “badly disfigured” and “…barely recognizable.” Hamelin P.D. has declined to comment, citing it as an “active investigation.”
Stevens, 18, attended Hamelin Regional High School and was a familiar face to many in the community. A standout forward for the Hamelin Ravens, he had played organized hockey in town since childhood and was widely considered one of the strongest players in this year’s graduating class. Friends and teammates remembered him as fiercely competitive on the ice, but quick with a joke once the game was over.
The Ravens are expected to observe a moment of silence before their next home game, and Stevens’ number 13 will remain out of the lineup for the remainder of the season. Guidance counsellors will be available to students at Hamelin Regional throughout the week.
Stevens is survived by his parents, Robert and Susan Stevens, and his younger sister, Emily. The family has asked for privacy and thanked members of the community who assisted in the search.