The community of Idaho Falls is grieving the loss of Carter Kenji Barnes, a lively 17-year-old who died in a car accident on April 12, 2025, in Bonneville County.
On April 12, Carter and another high school player from the Idaho Falls Youth Hockey Association were involved in a devastating car accident.
Tragically, Carter lost his life at the scene, while his teammate remains hospitalized, facing a long road to recovery.
His passing has left his parents, Jeff and Kristina Barnes, and their family heartbroken. The community is coming together to honor his memory.
Carter was a cherished son, brother, friend, and talented hockey player who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Born on January 11, 2008, to Jodi Barnes and Jeffrey Barnes, Carter grew up in Idaho Falls alongside his younger brother, Mason, and step-siblings Kaia Sperl, Lilee Fell, Connor Fell, and Piper Fell, with stepmother Kristina Barnes.
From a young age, Carter was a whirlwind of energy and determination, chasing his dreams with a smile that could light up any room.
At the age of 5, Carter put on his skates and joined the Idaho Falls Youth Hockey Association, where he discovered his passion for the ice.
He was a strong player, both as a right and occasionally a left defenseman. For his skill and determination, he won the Best Defenseman Award.
His team celebrated a hard-fought second-place finish at the state level, a testament to Carter’s teamwork and grit.
Beyond playing, Carter gave back to the sport he loved by serving as a youth hockey referee, mentoring younger players with kindness and patience.
However, Carter, a student at Bonneville High School, was on track to earn his associate’s degree before graduation. His strong goal showed his hard work and determination.
He competed nationally with the Business Professionals of America (BPA), securing second place in Idaho and sixth place nationally in Website Design Team.
Carter was also a proud National Junior Honor Society member and earned the Mayor’s Scholarship Award, showcasing his academic excellence and community spirit.
He honed his leadership skills and love for adventure through the Boy Scouts of America.
Carter Had A Commanding Presence, Not Just In Stature But Also In Personality.
At 5 feet 9 inches tall, he poured his creativity into building intricate Lego creations, losing himself in the joy of putting something new together.
Video games were another passion, where he’d spend hours laughing and strategizing with friends and family.
But nothing beat the adventures he shared with his loved ones; whether it was a family road trip or a spontaneous outing, Carter was always ready to make memories.
“Carter lived big, laughed loud, and loved deeply,” his family shared. His infectious enthusiasm and genuine care for others made him a friend to all.
Carter Barnes’ Death Shocked The Idaho Falls Hockey Community, Who Had Watched Him Grow Up
The Idaho Falls Spud Kings, the city’s junior hockey team, honored Carter with a heartfelt gesture: a display of his jersey and stick, along with a message.,
The Idaho Falls Youth Hockey Association also shared their grief, calling Carter
“Carter was more than a teammate—he was a remarkable young man who brought kindness, grit, and positivity to every rink he stepped on. His loss is deeply felt, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, coaches, and teammates. “
Via Facebook
The community invited everyone to honor him through #Sticks4Carter, a movement in which hockey fans place sticks outside their doors to show support.
Across the region, hockey players, families, and fans have embraced the #sticksoutforcarter movement, transforming porches into heartfelt memorials. The outpouring of love reflects just how deeply Carter touched those around him.
In a heartfelt post, Carter’s father, Jeff, shared how deeply he feels his loss:
Jeff encouraged others to keep reaching out, even if he couldn’t always respond immediately.
Carter is survived by his parents, Jeff and Kristina Barnes, and Jodi Barnes; his brother, Mason; his step-siblings, Kaia, Lilee, Connor, and Piper; and a wide circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents who adored him.
A celebration of Carter’s life is planned for 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the Ammon North Stake Center, located at 4363 E. 17th Street in Ammon, Idaho.
Friends and family are invited to visit with the Barnes family on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road, and on Friday from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. before the service.
Carter will be laid to rest at Ammon Cemetery, surrounded by the community that loved him so fiercely.
Carter Barnes was more than a hockey player, a student, or a scout; he was a son, a brother, and a friend who lived with purpose and joy.
His 17 years were filled with achievements, but his kindness and spirit will be remembered most.
As Idaho Falls comes together to grieve, it also celebrates a young man whose legacy will inspire for years to come.
Carter’s memory will forever be a bright, bold part of all who knew and loved him.
