Hockey fights are nothing new—fans expect them, and players often see them as a way to settle scores or energize their teams.
But while they carry an inherent risk of injury, it’s rare for things to take a truly dangerous turn.
Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happened during a Western Hockey League (WHL) game between the Tri-City Americans and the Seattle Thunderbirds.
A Fight That Took a Scary Turn
During Tuesday night’s matchup at the Toyota Center in Kennewick, Washington, Seattle’s Ashton Cumby and Tri-City’s Terrell Goldsmith dropped the gloves for a fight early in the second period.
The two players squared off at center ice, ready to exchange blows in a typical hockey brawl.
Cumby wasted no time, landing heavy punches on Goldsmith.
The fight escalated quickly, and at one point, Goldsmith’s helmet flew off.
Then came the decisive moment—Cumby threw a powerful right hand that sent Goldsmith collapsing onto the ice, completely unprotected.
Immediate Medical Attention Required
As soon as Goldsmith hit the ice, it was clear something was wrong.
The impact left him motionless, and officials quickly rushed in to assess the situation.
A Tri-City medical staff member was hurried onto the ice, assisted by teammates, as concern spread throughout the arena.
Fans watching the game described a chilling scene—Goldsmith landed face-first, and blood began pooling around him almost instantly.
Reports from the game also suggested that he appeared to suffer a seizure in the moments following the knockout.
Game Postponed Due to Emergency
With the seriousness of the situation apparent, the game was halted immediately.
Both teams were sent to their locker rooms while medical personnel worked to stabilize Goldsmith.
Eventually, an ambulance arrived to transport him to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Recognizing the severity of the incident, the WHL made the decision to suspend the game.
Plans to resume play at a later date are expected, but in the moment, the focus remained on Goldsmith’s health and recovery.
Team Statement Provides an Update
The Tri-City Americans addressed the situation the following afternoon, releasing a statement to reassure fans and the hockey community.
“Terrell Goldsmith remains in the hospital this morning under observation.
Upon arriving at the hospital last night, he was awake, responsive, and in good spirits.
The Tri-City Americans appreciate the words of concern and support for Goldsmith. We will continue to update his status.”
A Promising Young Career in Jeopardy?
Goldsmith, a 19-year-old defenseman from British Columbia, has a bright future in hockey.
He was selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NHL Draft by the Utah Hockey Club (formerly known as the Arizona Coyotes).
His development in the WHL has been closely watched, but this injury raises concerns about how long his recovery will take—and whether it could impact his path to the NHL.
What Happens Next?
For now, the priority is Goldsmith’s health and well-being.
The hockey world will be watching closely for updates on his recovery.
As for the game, the WHL will determine how and when it will be resumed, but safety remains the top concern.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder that, while fights are part of hockey’s culture, they come with real risks.
Goldsmith’s condition will be closely monitored, and fans, teammates, and league officials alike will be hoping for his full recovery.