University of New Haven Hockey Assistant Captain Killed In Wrong-Way Crash

Tragedy struck overnight, shocking the University of New Haven. Beloved Chargers hockey assistant captain Ryan O’Shea was struck and killed in a wrong-way driver accident on I-91 South shortly after the Chargers home opener game against Delaware.

The University of New Haven hockey team’s official press release reads

“Last night, the University of New Haven hockey family lost one of our own. Senior, assistant captain, Ryan O’Shea was struck by a wrong-way driver on I-91 S in North Haven on his way home from a game. Ryan embodied what it meant to be a Charger. His infectious personality and sense of humor lit up our locker room. He loved his teammates and we will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ryan’s family and loved ones. Rest easy, brother, we love you!”

Four others were injured in the tragic crash, according to Connecticut State Police.

Ryan O’Shea was just 21-years-old. The Stony Point, New York, native was a criminal justice major and just one semester away from graduation. This past summer, O’Shea was an intern with the NYPD.

O'Shea Joined the Chargers hockey squad, a club team, during his freshman year. O’Shea would develop into being a critical part in the team’s season year after year. The 5-foot-10 Defenseman had appeared in 21-games during the 2025/26 season, netting 4 points coming off of a duo of goals and assists. Overall, in 65 games as a Charger, O’Shea carried 26 points (9 goals, 17 assists).

In response to O'Shea's death, the University of New Haven canceled Saturday’s match against the University of Delaware. A campus memorial is being planned in O’Shea’s honor