The Frederick County community is enveloped in sorrow following the untimely death of Chase Draper, an 18-year-old Urbana resident and beloved member of the Maryland 18UAA ice hockey community. Chase tragically lost his life in a multi-vehicle collision on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and community spirit.

**The Incident
On the evening of July 15, 2025, at approximately 11:45 p.m., a devastating multi-vehicle accident occurred on Route 355 near Urbana Village Drive in Frederick County, Maryland. The collision involved multiple vehicles, with preliminary reports indicating a complex sequence of events leading to the tragedy. Maryland State Police and Frederick County Fire & Rescue responded swiftly to the scene, working tirelessly to extricate trapped occupants and provide emergency care. Chase Draper was found in critical condition and was transported to Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown, where, despite the best efforts of medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries early Wednesday morning.

**A Life of Passion and Promise
Chase Draper was a rising star in the Maryland 18UAA ice hockey community, known for his skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship on the ice. Off the rink, he was equally remarkable—a kind, respectful, and easygoing young man who touched the lives of those around him with his infectious positivity. Friends and teammates remember Chase for his unwavering support and his ability to bring people together, whether during a game or in everyday moments.

Chase was a devoted son, brother, and friend, whose warmth and genuine care left a lasting impression on everyone he met. “He was the kind of person who made everyone feel valued,” shared a teammate. “Chase had this way of lighting up a room, whether he was cracking a joke or just listening when you needed him.”

**A Community in Grief
The crash impacted several other individuals, with reports indicating injuries among other occupants involved in the collision. Emergency services transported the injured to Meritus Medical Center and Frederick Health Hospital, where they continue to receive treatment. Maryland State Police are conducting a thorough investigation, utilizing skid analysis, vehicle diagnostics, and witness statements to determine the cause of the accident. As of now, no charges have been filed, and authorities are awaiting toxicology reports to provide further clarity.

**Tributes Pour In
Since the news of Chase’s passing broke, the Frederick County community has come together in an outpouring of grief and support. Social media platforms have been filled with heartfelt tributes, memories, and condolences from teammates, coaches, friends, and community members. The hashtag #SticksOut has trended as a symbol of solidarity within the hockey community, honoring Chase’s love for the sport and his impact on those around him.

“Chase was one of those rare people who made everyone feel like they mattered,” wrote a family friend. “His smile and his heart will never be forgotten.”

A candlelight vigil is planned for Saturday evening at Urbana Park, where the community will gather to celebrate Chase’s life, share stories, and offer support to his grieving family. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, reflecting the profound impact Chase had on those around him.

**Honoring Chase’s Legacy
In the wake of this tragedy, friends, teammates, and community members have rallied to support the Draper family. A fundraising initiative has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and to establish a scholarship fund in Chase’s name, aimed at supporting young athletes in the Frederick County area. The fundraiser reflects Chase’s passion for hockey and his commitment to uplifting others, ensuring his legacy endures through future generations.

**A Lasting Memory**

Chase Draper will be remembered as a vibrant young man whose life, though cut short, was filled with purpose and love. His dedication to his team, his kindness to friends and strangers alike, and his ability to inspire those around him will live on in the hearts of the Frederick County community.

Rest in peace, Chase. Your spirit will continue to shine through the lives you touched, the games you played, and the love you shared. The ice will never be the same without you, but your legacy will skate on forever.