“Stick Salute” brings community together to honor Matthew Dennison

WEST WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE)- The Rhode Island hockey community joined together today to honor Matthew Dennison as his family laid him to rest.

A “Stick Salute” at West Warwick High School with hockey players from around the state to say their final goodbye to the 17-year-old who tragically lost his life from injuries sustained when an alleged drunk driver struck the vehicle he was in with his teammate, Kevin MacDonald.

Ring Announcer Andrew Chevalier spoke on the event, “It’s almost like we’re getting ready to say goodbye, it’s really quiet here.” Chevalier continued, “Matt’s jersey is hanging up right now, and we’re almost getting ready to say goodbye and get some closure from this awful disaster.”

A fellow hockey player, Cam Desante, spoke on his time playing alongside Matthew, “I’ve played with Matt for quite a while, I think about 10 years, and it’s tough being out here, but being out here with everybody, everybody showing support like this, it means a lot.”

Matthew Dennison’s funeral was held this morning.