Only two survivors were pulled out of the Yak-42 plane after it crashed shortly after take off earlier today in Yaroslavl, Russia. The plane was carrying 45 passengers, all members of Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League. The players were on their way to Belarus to play the first game of the new season.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation. The weather was clear and sunny; investigators say the plane was having trouble gaining altitude after take off when it suddenly hit a signal tower and burst into flames. According to reports, one survivor, a Russian hockey player, has suffered burns to nearly 80% of his body. The one other survivor was a plane engineer and he is in serious condition.

Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of the KHL members on board the plane.