Kivlenieks passed away Sunday night, according to a release from the Columbus Blue Jackets. He was just 24.
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks has died following a head injury he sustained during a fall and what team officials are calling a “tragic accident.”
Kivlenieks passed away Sunday night, according to a release from the Columbus Blue Jackets. He was just 24.
Police in Novi, Michigan — where the incident reportedly took place — told The Associated Press Kivlenieks was in a hot tub when a mortar-style firework tilted and fired at people nearby. Police said Kivlenieks was fleeing the hot tub when he slipped and fell, hitting his head on the concrete.
According to a release from CBJ, medical personnel responded immediately, but Kivlenieks died not long after.
In a statement released Monday, Columbus Blue Jackets President of Hockey Operations John Davidson described Kivlenieks in part as an “outstanding man who greeted every day and everyone with a smile.”
You can read his full statement below:
“We are shocked and saddened by the loss of Matiss Kivlenieks, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his mother, Astrida, his family and friends during this devastating time. 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.”
Originally from Latvia, Kivlenieks signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets in May of 2017.
Kivlenieks made his NHL debut in January of 2020 when he stopped 31 of 32 shots against the New York Rangers, leading the Blue Jackets to a 2-1 victory.
Over the span of four years, Kivlenieks posted a 33-35-9 mark with a 3.31 goals against average and a .896 save percentage in 85 career games with the Cleveland Monsters.
He went on to represent Latvia during several international tournaments this year.
National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman released the following statement on Monday in response to Kivlenieks’ death:
“The National Hockey League was saddened to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks. On behalf of the NHL family, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and teammates in both the Blue Jackets organization and his native country of Latvia. His love for life and passion for the game will be deeply missed by all those who have been fortunate to have him as a teammate and a friend.”
