Hockey team leaders shocked by death of Bloomington Bison team VP (2024)

BLOOMINGTON — Colleagues of theBloomington Bison hockey team’s vice president, Scott Alan, said the next adventure in his career was cut short Monday by a fatal car crash, leaving his work teammates in a state of sorrow and shock.

In a statement, Jim Hallett, owner of the Indy Fuel and Bloomington Bison hockey teams, confirmed Alan, who also went by Scott Mcilrath, died Monday in a crash in rural McLean County.

Hallett called Alan a cornerstone of the Indy Fuel family from the start, having spent 10 years as emcee for the team.

The McLean County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched about 5:15 p.m. Monday to a two-vehicle crash near the intersection of 1600 North and 4000 East roads in Anchor Township of eastern McLean County. The McLean County Coroner's Office identified Scott Mcilrath, 59, of Kokomo, Indiana, as one of the drivers, and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Preliminary autopsy results show he died from multiple blunt injuries caused by a sport utility vehicle collision, according to the coroner's office.

In an emailed statement, Larry McQueary, president and CEO of the Bloomington Bison and Indy Fuel, said Alan had beenon his way to Bloomington on Monday, relocating for his new job as vice president of operations for the Bison. Alan was expected to start Wednesday as the Bloomington Bison’s first hire.

“He was excited for this new opportunity and came over (to Bloomington) a few times to understand and get the feel of the city before accepting the job,” McQueary said. “He, like myself, could feel how genuine the people are here in Bloomington and he was really looking forward to moving here and for his new adventure.”

Hallett said Alan was more than a colleague.

“He was a true friend to many of us, and his memory will forever resonate within our community,” he said. “Let us come together to honor and cherish the legacy he leaves behind.”

McQueary said Alan's passing leaves a void, but the team will carry on because that’s what Alan would have wanted. He said Alan will be recognized this coming season for his dedication to both teams.

Team officials said arrangements by Alan’s family for funeral or memorial services are pending.