Broncos crash survivor leaves team to continue recovery

A Humboldt Broncos bus crash survivor is stepping away from the team to continue his recovery at home.

Tyler Smith, 20, was one of the 13 players who survived the April 6 bus crash — which killed 16 members of the team.

He returned to the Broncos partway through this season, suiting up for the first time since the tragedy on Nov. 2.

In 10 games this season he collected one assist.

Smith announced he was leaving the team after discussions with his family, head coach Nathan Oystrick and others.

“I have made the decision that I will be stepping away from the Humboldt Broncos to allow my recovery to take place at home,” he wrote.
“This was not an easy decision, but just something that I have to do.”

The center thanked the organization, rink staff, billets and fans for making his time in Humboldt memorable.

Two crash survivors remain on the team, forwards Brayden Camrud and Derek Patter.

Camrud currently sits 14th in SJHL scoring with 15 goals and 15 assists through 23 games this season.

Patter has collected seven goals and five assists in 24 games.

The Broncos are also tied for first place in the league standings, boasting a 19-7-3 record through 29 games.