Rick Zombo’s car accident sparks an outpouring of support from fans and former teammates.
Highlights
- Rick Zombo met a devastating car accident on February 12, 2025.
- He is being treated in a hospital in the St. Louis area.
- The news was first broken by Dave LewAllen, a veteran journalist with WXYZ-TV.
Richard James Zombo built an impressive career in professional ice hockey, spanning 12 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1984 to 1996.
The American defenseman’s journey began in the United States Hockey League, where he played for the Austin Mavericks, securing 36 points in 43 games.
The Detroit Red Wings recognized his potential and drafted him in the 8th round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft.
Zombo’s collegiate career at the University of North Dakota proved pivotal.
He contributed to the Fighting Sioux’s 1982 NCAA National Championship victory over the Wisconsin Badgers.
His offensive capabilities flourished in his final collegiate season, where he recorded 31 points in 34 games.
The Detroit Red Wings shaped Zombo’s early professional career.
He earned a permanent spot on the team in the 1987-88 season, impressing with 17 points and a remarkable +24 rating.
His performance helped the Red Wings secure the Norris Division title.
The 1989-90 season marked his career-best, recording five goals and 25 points in 77 games.
His leadership qualities earned him an alternate captain position in the 1990-91 season.
Zombo later played for the St. Louis Blues and Boston Bruins before concluding his NHL career.
He transitioned into coaching, making significant contributions to hockey development.
He founded the Hockey Performance Center of St. Louis and led various teams, including a successful 14-year tenure as head coach at Lindenwood University.
Former Red Wings Defenseman Rick Zombo Hospitalized After a Serious Car Accident
On February 12, 2025, news broke about Richard Zombo’s involvement in a serious car accident.
Dave LewAllen, a veteran journalist with WXYZ-TV, first reported the incident on social media.
LewAllen revealed that Zombo was receiving treatment in a St. Louis area hospital following the weekend accident.
Hearing former @DetroitRedWings defenseman Rick Zombo was involved in a serious automobile accident over the weekend. He is being treated in a St. Louis area hospital. Zombo played 353 games over eight seasons with the Wings. Prayers up for Rick.
— Dave LewAllen (@tvnewzguy) February 11, 2025
The news quickly spread through the hockey community, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and former colleagues.
Eric Ballard, a close friend of Zombo, shared personal memories on Facebook, including photos of their time together during outdoor activities and clay shooting sessions with former player Bobby Holik.
Ballard’s post called for thoughts and prayers for his friend’s recovery.
The hockey community rallied around Zombo, with fans and supporters flooding social media with messages of encouragement.
Former teammates and opponents shared their experiences with Zombo, including one fan who recalled playing against him in a roller hockey tournament after his NHL career.
Others praised his defensive prowess and character, demonstrating the lasting impact he made during his professional career.
His contributions to the sport, both as a player and coach, have left an indelible mark on American hockey, making his recovery a matter of concern for fans across the nation.
Additional Information
- Early in his career, Zombo represented the United States National Team in the World Junior Hockey Championships, though he didn’t score any points in his seven appearances.
- He faced a significant disciplinary action in 1994 when NHL Vice President Brian Burke suspended him for 10 games after determining he deliberately made contact with linesman Kevin Collins during a game against Dallas.
- Richard has a son named Dominic Zombo, a former hockey player who played for the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Before that, he played in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Sioux Falls Stampede, where he recorded 16 goals and 20 assists in one season.
