Jacob Winterton, a former junior hockey player and brother of Seattle Kraken forward Ryan Winterton, has died at age 25. He reportedly died after a battle with cancer, according to sources including the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). The OHL announced the news on Wednesday, sending condolences to his family and friends.
Jacob Winterton was from Whitby, Ontario, Canada, and played in the OHL for Flint Firebirds and Oshawa Generals between 2018 and 2020, later playing university hockey in Canada. Ryan Winterton posted on Instagram, expressing grief over the loss of his brother, whom he called his best friend. The Seattle Kraken issued a statement expressing sadness and offering support to Ryan Winterton and the Winterton family.
Darren Dreger, a TSN insider, also shared a tribute on social media, praising Jacob Winterton's character and leadership.