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The Rhode Island hockey community was devastated by the death of Matthew “Matt” Dennison, a 17-year-old West Warwick hockey player who died in March 2022 after suffering critical injuries in a car crash in Exeter, Rhode Island.

Dennison was a member of the West Warwick–Exeter-West Greenwich cooperative high school hockey team and had earned recognition for his leadership, commitment to the sport, and contribution to his teammates. His death left family members, friends, fellow players, and coaches grieving a young life cut short.

The crash also led to a criminal case that concluded in March 2024, when the driver involved was sentenced to prison after admitting to driving under the influence and causing the fatal collision.

What Happened to Matt Dennison?

The crash occurred on the evening of February 12, 2022, in Exeter, Rhode Island. Dennison was travelling as a passenger in a vehicle with his teammate and friend, Kevin MacDonald, when their car collided head-on with a pickup truck driven by Alexander Krajewski.

Investigators determined that Krajewski was driving while heavily intoxicated and crossed into oncoming traffic. Both teenagers suffered serious injuries and were taken to the hospital.

Dennison remained hospitalized for several weeks before dying from his injuries in March 2022. MacDonald survived but was seriously injured.

The news of Dennison’s death brought renewed attention to the consequences of impaired driving and the devastating effect a single collision can have on families and entire communities.

Matt Dennison’s Life and Passion for Hockey

Hockey played a central role in Dennison’s life. According to his family’s obituary, he began skating at four years old and quickly developed a lasting love for the game.

He became a dedicated player and eventually served as senior captain of the West Warwick–Exeter-West Greenwich cooperative team. His leadership was part of a group effort that helped the team win a state championship in 2020.

For Dennison, hockey was more than a competitive activity. It was a source of friendship, teamwork, discipline, and belonging. His teammates were an important part of his life, and the relationships he built through the sport remained a meaningful part of his story.

His death was especially painful for the local hockey community because he was still a teenager with many years ahead of him.

Community Tributes Following Matt Dennison’s Death

Following the crash and Dennison’s death, tributes came from the Rhode Island hockey community and beyond.

The Boston Bruins publicly honored him in April 2022, displaying a jersey bearing his name and number behind the team’s bench before a game. The gesture reflected the reach of the tragedy beyond his school and hometown.

High school hockey players and coaches also remembered Dennison during the state championship period. His teammates and other players who knew him through youth hockey were among those affected by the loss.

For his family and friends, these tributes offered a way to recognize his passion for the sport and the relationships that had shaped his life.

Legal Case Following the Fatal Car Accident

The criminal case arising from the collision reached a significant point in March 2024.

Alexander Krajewski pleaded no contest to charges of driving under the influence of alcohol resulting in death and driving under the influence resulting in serious bodily harm. The case involved both Dennison’s death and the severe injuries suffered by MacDonald.

Krajewski was sentenced to 15 years, with 12 years to serve in state prison, followed by a three-year suspended sentence and 15 years of probation. The court also imposed fines and revoked his driver’s license for seven years following his release.

The outcome provided a legal resolution in a case that had devastated two young players’ families and their wider community. It also underscored the serious legal consequences of driving while intoxicated.

Remembering Matt Dennison’s Legacy

Matt Dennison is remembered as a young athlete who gave himself fully to hockey and valued the friendships he formed through the game. His family described him as a leader both on and off the ice, surrounded by friends he regarded as brothers.

His death remains a painful reminder that the consequences of impaired driving extend far beyond the people directly involved in a collision. Families lose loved ones, teammates lose friends, and communities are left to deal with grief that can persist for years.

Although Dennison’s life ended at 17, the memories held by his family, teammates, coaches, and friends continue to preserve his place in the Rhode Island hockey community.

Matt Dennison Personal Details

Disclaimer

This article summarizes publicly reported information about Matthew Dennison’s fatal car accident, hockey career, community tributes, and the subsequent criminal case. It is intended to honor his memory while presenting the circumstances of the crash responsibly. Our condolences go to his family, friends, teammates, and everyone affected by his death.