Outpouring of support after 2 young men killed in Orono crash

KSTP

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A 24-year-old passenger who died in the crash that killed the son of the Gophers men’s hockey coach was identified on Monday.

The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the man as Samuel Thomas Schuneman, of Maple Grove.

Schuneman was a passenger in the vehicle, which left the road and struck several trees in Orono on Saturday night.

"He was really one of a kind. He’ll always be remembered by his friends," said Alex Orn, Schuneman’s friend.

Crosses are seen near the site of a crash in Orono that killed Mack Motzko and Samuel Schuneman.[KSTP]

Several of Schuneman’s friends gathered at the roadside scene of the accident on Monday to share stories and a box of tissues.

"Sam was our friend, he was a was a wonderful guy, he always made everyone feel so welcome. Whenever he walked into a room, everyone would flock to him," said his friend, Rashed Elbaba.

Also killed in the crash was 20-year-old Mack Motzko, the son of Gophers men’s hockey coach Bob Motzko. Several organizations, including the University of Minnesota Athletics Department, released statements on Sunday regarding Mack Motzko’s death.

The New Mexico Ice Wolves of the NAHL tweeted a modified version of their logo on Monday to honor their former player.

Authorities said James Blue, the 51-year-old driver of the vehicle, was taken to a hospital in critical condition. There was no update on his status as of Monday.

Police also said alcohol and speed likely contributed to the crash.

An investigation remains ongoing.

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