Jackson Trese Accident – Texas Dallas Stars Elite Goalie Jackson “Little Tree” Trese Fighting for Life After Tragic Accident; Community Rallies in Support
TEXAS — A wave of emotion and concern has swept through the Dallas hockey community and beyond following a devastating accident that left Jackson “Little Tree” Trese, a talented young goalie for the Dallas Stars Elite 2012 team, critically injured on Thursday. The 12-year-old, affectionately nicknamed “Little Tree” by family, friends, and teammates, is now fighting for his life as prayers and support pour in from every corner of the hockey world.
According to preliminary reports, Jackson was involved in a serious accident on Thursday, June 27, though details surrounding the incident have not been fully released out of respect for the family’s privacy. What is known is that the accident resulted in life-threatening injuries, and Jackson was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition under close medical supervision.
The news has left his teammates, coaches, friends, and family members in a state of shock. Jackson, known not only for his fierce focus between the pipes but also for his playful personality, kind heart, and signature wide smile, has been a beloved presence on and off the ice. Despite his young age, he has already made an indelible mark on the Dallas hockey scene with his work ethic, talent, and infectious love for the game.
“Little Tree”—a nickname born from his family name “Trese” and his big heart in a small body—has come to symbolize resilience, growth, and heart. Now, those qualities are more important than ever as he faces the biggest battle of his life.
In the wake of the accident, the Dallas Stars Elite organization released a heartfelt statement expressing their support and concern:
“Jackson Trese is one of our own—a fierce competitor, a great teammate, and a young man with an incredible future. Our hearts are with the Trese family as they navigate this unimaginable time. We are behind Jackson with all our strength, love, and prayers. #LittleTreeStrong”
A GoFundMe page and social media campaign, #LittleTreeStrong, have been launched to assist the family with medical expenses and to spread awareness of Jackson’s story. Within hours, donations and messages of hope began flooding in from teammates, hockey families, coaches, and even professional players from across the country.
The outpouring of love has included signed jerseys, video tributes, locker room prayers, and candlelight vigils held by youth teams from Texas to Canada. Several members of the NHL and AHL communities have also shared their support, asking fans to keep Jackson in their hearts.
Coaches from the Dallas Stars Elite 2012 team described Jackson as the “heartbeat of the locker room,” noting his discipline, quick reflexes, and steady calm under pressure—rare qualities for someone so young.
“Jackson never let the pressure get to him,” said Coach Derek Morrison. “He just loved the game and loved his brothers on the team. He always said, ‘I got your back.’ And now, it’s our turn to have his.”
His school community has also mobilized in support, creating “Get Well” banners and hosting prayer circles and assemblies. Teachers recall him as a bright, polite, and respectful student who balanced sports and academics with a quiet sense of responsibility.
As Jackson remains in intensive care, the Trese family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of compassion:
“We are overwhelmed by the love and support being shown to our Little Tree. Jackson is a fighter, and though this is the hardest challenge he’s ever faced, we know he’s not facing it alone. Please continue to pray for our son. Your words, prayers, and love are holding us up.”
As the community rallies, a simple but powerful message continues to echo through arenas, classrooms, and living rooms: Jackson Trese is not alone. He is surrounded by a team far bigger than he ever imagined—one made up of strangers turned supporters, opponents turned allies, and fans turned family.
The road ahead is uncertain, but one thing remains crystal clear: Little Tree’s roots run deep. And with a forest of love behind him, he’s not done fighting yet.
#LittleTreeStrong
We believe in you, Jackson. Keep fighting. Your team—your whole city—is with you.