Amherst's Ice Rink to Host Charity Hockey Game in Memory of Danny Bechtel
On August 9, a charity hockey game will bring together Amherst police officers and firefighters on the ice at the Northtown Center, a venue that has become a focal point for community gatherings in western New York.
The event is organized to honor Danny Bechtel, a 16‑year‑old who died in August 2025 after an e‑dirt bike crash in nearby Clarence, and to raise funds for the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Golisano Children's Hospital.
Amherst Police Safety Education Officer Trey Johnson, who lost his own son to a similar accident, said the game is more than a competition; it is a chance for first responders to connect with residents, share stories, and give back to a cause that saved many lives.
Fundraising for a Pediatric ICU
All proceeds from ticket sales, basket raffles, a 50/50 draw, and a silent auction will be directed to the hospital’s pediatric ICU, where the young patient’s care team will be recognized during the ceremony.
Members of the ICU team that cared for Danny, along with representatives from ConnectLife, the organization that coordinated his organ donation, are expected to attend, underscoring the deep ties between the medical community and the families they serve.
Beyond the rink, the day will feature a free open skate, allowing families and fans to experience the sport while learning about safety initiatives promoted by local law‑enforcement agencies.
The game also serves as a platform for community outreach, illustrating how public safety personnel can leverage their platforms for charitable endeavors that extend far beyond their everyday duties.