Fifteen-Year-Old Jax Affolter Dies in Tragic Head-On Crash in Chisago City Leaving Parents Derek and Elizabeth Zarn Devastated

Community members launch a meal train and donation drive to support the Zarn family.

October 26, 2026

This article was last updated by aditibhatta on October 26, 2026

The Chisago Lakes community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 15-year-old Jax Affolter, who died in a head-on collision early Saturday morning in Chisago City.

According to the Lakes Area Police Department, the crash occurred shortly before 2 a.m. at Stacy Trail and Ivywood Trail, when two vehicles collided, leaving two teens dead and three others seriously injured.

Authorities said a 2014 Toyota Camry, driven by a 14-year-old, struck a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner carrying a 17-year-old driver and an 18-year-old passenger.

Jax, who was one of the 15-year-old passengers in the Camry, died at the scene, while the driver and another 15-year-old were rushed to Regions Hospital in St. Paul with serious injuries.

The 17-year-old driver of the 4-Runner later died from his injuries, and both surviving victims remain in critical condition.

Police reported that alcohol was found at the scene and may have been a contributing factor in the crash.

The Chisago Lakes Hockey Association expressed deep sorrow over Jax’s passing, describing him as a beloved son, brother, friend, and teammate.

The association urged the community to put hockey sticks out and leave a light on in Jax’s memory, symbolizing unity and remembrance for one of their own.

“Today, we as a hockey family mourn the loss of Jax and stand committed to supporting his family,” the association shared.

The hockey community has also launched a to help ease the family’s emotional and financial burdens as they navigate their loss.

Ashley Alvarez, alongside Elizabeth and Derek Zarn, initiated the Meal Train for Jax’s family, calling on friends and neighbors to provide meals, gift cards, or donations.

“We started this meal train to pour love and support over Derek and Elizabeth as they grieve the tragic loss of their 15-year-old son,” Alvarez .

Community members like Hayley Duke and Kaycee Brake have echoed calls for compassion, prayers, and practical help.

Brake revealed the heartbreaking reality that two families lost their children in the same collision, while others remain in serious condition.

In the wake of Jax Affolter’s untimely death, the Chisago Lakes community continues to come together — lighting candles, sharing photos of hockey sticks on porches, and offering meals and donations.

Though words cannot ease the family’s pain, the overwhelming outpouring of love and solidarity reflects how deeply Jax touched those around him.

As the investigation continues, Jax’s memory lives on in the hearts of his teammates, friends, and family who vow to honor his spirit both on and off the ice.

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