Teammates and NHL stars are mourning the sudden passing of Columbus Blue Jackets’ goalie Matiss Kivlenieks who was killed in July 4 celebrations in Michigan.
Police Lt. Jason Meier had announced that the 24-year-old was fatally hit by a mortar-style firework late Sunday night.
He was rushed to a hospital before he was declared dead at around 10 p.m. from severe chest trauma.
“When I first met Matiss in 1st grade, I asked him to fill out my diary. One of the questions was ‘your dream profession’ to which Matiss replied: goalie in the NHL,” a friend recalled.
“He was just 7 years old when he knew exactly what he wants to achieve with his life.”
Blue Jackets’ manager Jarmo Kekalainen said on Twitter: “Life is so precious and can be so fragile.”
“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.”
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said: “His love for life and passion for the game will be deeply missed by all those who have been fortunate to have him a teammate and a friend.”
