Matiss Kivlenieks had a promising hockey career ahead of him, having played in the NHL with the Columbus Blue Jackets, and representing his native Latvia on the international stage numerous times.
The 24 year old's life was cut short this Fourth of July weekend in what has been deemed a tragic accident.
ESPN originally reported that Kivlenieks died as a result of "falling and hitting his head on concrete" in Novi, Michigan, however the Associated Press later revealed that "an autopsy has determined that [he] died of chest trauma from an errant fireworks mortar blast."
"There appears to have been a fireworks malfunction," said Lt. Jason Meier of the Novi Police Department, "which caused a group of people to flee from the hot tub, including the deceased." According to the Associated Press, police have now said "the mortar-style firework tilted slightly and started to fire toward people nearby."
It’s with a very heavy heart that we share the news that goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks passed away last night at the age of 24.
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) July 5, 2021
We are heartbroken. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Rest in peace, Kivi.https://t.co/o2EDRgxQ5A pic.twitter.com/FCBr0ZaH25
The Blue Jackets made the announcement early Monday morning in a heartfelt tweet, urging people to keep Kivi and his family in their prayers.
Statement from Commissioner Gary Bettman on the passing of @BlueJacketsNHL goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks. https://t.co/wcNocrykH8 pic.twitter.com/xE3xSahQAR
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) July 5, 2021
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman offered his condolences as well, remembering Kivlenieks' "love for life and passion for the game."
Kivlenieks made headlines earlier this year for his performance in the World Hockey Championship in Latvia where he shut out the Canadian team in the opener.
He will be missed by his family, friends, and teammates.
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