The Omaha hockey community mourns alongside the Sobansky family after they lost 17-year-old AJ Sobansky in a devastating act of violence on Friday, June 6, 2025.
The tragedy has particularly impacted her younger brother, Zoren Sobansky, a promising young hockey player who now faces unimaginable grief.
Zoren Sobansky has established himself as a notable talent in youth hockey, currently playing forward for the Lincoln Jr. Stars in the USHS league during the 2024-25 season.
Born on August 21, 2009, in Omaha, Nebraska, the 15-year-old left-handed shooter stands 6’0″ tall and has shown considerable promise on the ice.
The young athlete represents the next generation of Nebraska hockey talent, competing at a high level while balancing his academic commitments.
His dedication to the sport has earned him recognition in hockey circles, with his profile tracked by Elite Prospects, a testament to his potential in the game.
His commitment to the sport and his team demonstrates the discipline and focus that characterizes successful student-athletes.
AJ Sobansky’s Death Marks A Tragic End To A Young Life Full Of Promise And Talent
The Sobansky family’s world changed forever on Friday, June 6, when AJ Sobansky lost her life in what family members describe as an unthinkable act of violence.
The 17-year-old had just completed her sophomore year at Millard North High School and was looking forward to her junior year.
AJ embodied the spirit of a well-rounded student who participated actively in various school activities.
She devoted herself to show choir, forensics, poetry, and theater, most recently performing in the school’s production of Mean Girls.
Those who knew her describe her as smart, talented, and authentic—someone who brought joy, honesty, and heart to everything she pursued.
Social media posts from community members reveal the devastating impact of AJ’s death.
Lisa Featherstone Jensen shared the heartbreaking news, describing how AJ was shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend, who was 18 years old.
The post emphasized AJ’s involvement in activities similar to Jensen’s daughter, Ruby, highlighting the close-knit nature of the Millard North community.
Family members have also spoken out about their loss. Elise Nicole, who identified herself as AJ’s aunt, expressed the family’s shattered state, describing how their hearts went “from broken to shattered” upon learning of the tragedy.
She emphasized the need for community support for AJ’s parents, Erin and Cody, and their children during this unimaginable time.
The Omaha Hockey Club, representing the broader hockey community that Zoren belongs to, issued a statement expressing their heartbreak over the loss.
The organization emphasized its support for the Sobansky family, describing them as valued members of both their association and the greater Omaha hockey community.
The community response reflects the deep connections formed in places like Millard North High School, where students, families, and staff create lasting bonds through shared activities and experiences.
This tragic loss serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence, particularly affecting young people.
AJ’s death has left a permanent void in the lives of those who knew her, from her immediate family, including brother Zoren, to her extended family, school community, and the broader Omaha area.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Zoren wears #12 for the Lincoln Jr. Stars.
- AJ also went by the name “Zara” in addition to her regular name.
- The memorial GoFundMe for AJ was organized by Amanda & Kristopher Peterson, not just by Zoren alone.
