Columbus Blue Jackets
Blue Jackets Goalie Matiss Kivlenieks Dies in Fireworks Related Accident
Reports confirm that Columbus Blue Jackets Goalie Matiss Kivlenieks has died, not from a a fall, but from a fireworks related accident.
In some tragic, sad and troubling news, the NHL world is mourning the loss of a young hockey player gone too soon as the Columbus Blue Jackets have confirmed that goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks passed away Sunday night at the age of 24. Initial reports were that he fell and hit his head coming out of a hot tub. Follow up reports confirm that is not entirely accurate as a medical examiner in Michigan says an autopsy has determined that Kivlenieks died of chest trauma from an errant fireworks mortar blast, and not a fall.
From a report via ESPN:
Police in Novi, Michigan, said the mortar-style firework tilted slightly and started to fire toward people nearby Sunday night. The 24-year-old Kivlenieks was in a hot tub and tried to get clear with several other people, police Lt. Jason Meier said.
The report of his death from authorities added, “At the moment, we’re pretty certain this was a tragic accident,” police Lt. Jason Meier said.
The NHL released a statement after hearing the news and the league has extended their deepest condolences to his family and friends. They add that “his love for life and passion for the game will be deeply missed by all those who have been fortunate enough to have him as a teammate and a friend.” Foligno said, “One thing I loved and appreciated about him was he had a great smile and always was in a good mood,” He added, “I know it’s cliché, but that’s exactly the kind of guy he was.”
Blue Jackets’ GM Jarmo Kekalainen wrote, “Life is so precious and can be so fragile. Hug your loved ones today. RIP Matiss, you will be dearly missed.”
Former teammates have commented as well. David Savard says Nick Foligno texted him to learn of the news: “That was a brutal wake up this morning. He was a good kid with a lot of talent who was going to be a part of the team next year or in the future. It’s extremely sad.”
Our Deepest Condolences
We echo the sentiments being carried forward by so many people in the hockey world today. It’s terrible news that a player is lost at such a young age and taken in such an unfortunate way. Our deepest condolences go out to Matiss Kivlenieks family, friends and former teammates.
Next: Don’t Be Shocked if Nick Foligno Re-Signs with the Maple Leafs – Cheap
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