The Oakville community is mourning the tragic death of 8-year-old Melody Xu, a young hockey player remembered for her bright spirit, kindness, and love for the game. Melody passed away following a collision on Thursday, November 6, when she and her mother were struck by a Lexus SUV on North Service Road West.
Halton Regional Police say the accident occurred shortly before 4 p.m. as the vehicle veered off the roadway and onto the sidewalk, striking the mother and daughter. Both were transported first to a local hospital and then to trauma centers. Despite the efforts of medical teams, Melody succumbed to her injuries. Her mother remains hospitalized.
The driver, a 47-year-old man from Oakville, was arrested at the scene and has been charged with dangerous operation of a conveyance causing death. The Halton Regional Police Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate. GoFundMe
“Forever a Hornet”
The Oakville Hornets Girls Hockey Association confirmed Melody’s passing in a statement shared with its members and community:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our little Hornet, Melody Xu. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and her U9 Hornets teammates during this unimaginable time.”
In tribute, the association began a gesture now spreading across Oakville and beyond:
Put Your Stick Out for Melody.
Families are placing hockey sticks on porches, balconies, and doorsteps — a symbol of remembrance within the hockey community traditionally extended to honor a fallen player.
The Hornets wrote:
“This small gesture is a way to show love, unity, and support for Melody’s family, friends, and teammates as we remember her bright spirit.
Forever a Hornet. Forever in our hearts. MX6.”
Melody played with joy, enthusiasm, and a determination that teammates and coaches say lifted everyone around her. She was known for her caring nature — on the ice and off — and for the way she encouraged others with a cheerful smile that teammates say “could brighten any rink.”
A Community in Support
Residents, parents, teammates, and hockey families across Ontario have expressed grief and support online. Many are sharing memories of Melody at tournaments, team gatherings, and practice — always energized, always kind, always first to cheer another child on.
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