In an unexpected turn of events, a mistrial has been declared in the highly publicized Hockey Canada sexual assault case, just two days after the Crown attorney delivered compelling opening statements.

The drama unfolded in Ontario Superior Court, where a 14-member jury—comprised of 11 women and 3 men—was selected. Judge Maria Carroccia sent the jurors home following her ruling, leaving them with lingering questions about the trial's future.

The court adjourned early as Justice Carroccia hinted at a significant issue that arose during the lunch break, stating, "Something happened over the lunch hour that I need to think about and to discuss with the lawyers." The nature of this dilemma remains shrouded in mystery due to a publication ban preventing details from emerging.

The trial revolves around harrowing allegations involving former NHL players Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dubé, and Cal Foote. They face charges related to a chilling incident in June 2018, when a 20-year-old woman claimed she was sexually assaulted for hours in a hotel room during a Hockey Canada gala celebrating the team's success at the 2018 World Junior Championship.

When the players were arraigned, they all pleaded not guilty, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle. As Crown attorney Heather Donkers laid out the prosecution's case, she emphasized that jurors must focus on the critical issue of consent, urging them to discard any preconceived notions regarding sexual assault.

Donkers indicated that the trial, originally slated to last eight weeks, would involve testimony from the complainant and various evidence, asserting that the defendants engaged in sexual contact without her voluntary consent.

As the court prepares to select a new jury, the eyes of the nation remain glued to this explosive case, which challenges the pillars of trust in the world of hockey.