The goalkeeper for the Columbus Blue Jackets ice hockey team, Matiss Kivlenieks, has tragically died from chest trauma caused by a fireworks malfunction.
During Independence Day celebrations in Novi, Michigan, Kivlenieks was present for a firework display which malfunctioned and began to fire towards those at the party.
Fleeing a hot tub, the Latvian was thought to be the victim of a head injury after slipping and hitting concrete but a subsequent autopsy has shown the cause of death to be chest trauma.
Authorities had arrived on the scene to transfer Kivlenieks to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Matiss Kivlenieks
Columbus general manager Jarmo Kekalainen wrote on social media: “Life is so precious and can be so fragile. Hug your loved ones today. RIP Matiss, you will be dearly missed.”
The Blue Jackets president of John Davidson called it a “devastating time” for the team.
“Kivi was an outstanding young man who greeted every day and everyone with a smile and the impact he had during his four years with our organization will not be forgotten,” he said.
“What a tragic loss for all of us who knew him and I am thinking and praying for his family,” former Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno wrote.
“Heaven gained a darn good goalie and better person… Just, way too soon.”
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