NAHL mourns the loss of New Mexico forward Mack Motzko
Mack Motzko (2001-2021)
Mack Motzko, a 20-year-old forward for the NAHL’s New Mexico Ice Wolves and son of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers men's hockey coach Bob Motzko, died of injuries suffered in a car crash on the night of Saturday, July 24th in Orono, MN, that also killed another passenger.
The NAHL's New Mexico Ice Wolves released the following statement: “With heavy hearts we say goodbye to one of our own, Mack Motzko, who lost his life in a tragic accident last night. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mack’s family, friends and teammates."
NAHL Commissioner Mark Frankenfeld stated the following: "This is a devistating and tragic loss to our NAHL family. Our hearts and thoughts go out to Bob and Shelley and the rest of the Motzko family on this unspeakable loss. We pray that they find peace during this extremely difficult time and offer our assistance in any way possible,"
Motzko was in his first season of junior hockey. He joined the Ice Wolves during the second half of the 2020-21 season after beginning the season in the USHL. In 25 regular season games with New Mexico, Motzko recorded eight points (4 goals, 4 assists).
Orono police shared few details of the crash that remains under investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol. The Long Lake Fire Department and Orono police responded to single-vehicle crash at 11:23 p.m. Saturday near 3120 North Shore Drive. "The vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and left the roadway. The vehicle struck several trees," the release said.
A 51-year-old man who was driving and Motzko, who was in the back seat, were taken to North Memorial Health Hospital, where Motzko later died. The driver suffered critical injuries. A 24-year-old man in the front passenger seat died at the scene. The identities of the other two men were not immediately released.
"Our hearts are shattered by the loss of our Mack," tweeted Bob Motzko. "No bigger heart or young man loved than this kid. Thanks to all who have reached out. He is my hero."
Prior to playing junior hockey in the NAHL, Motzko played high school hockey for St. Cloud Cathedral and Minnetonka High in Minnesota.
