Ice hockey star Matiss Kivlenieks has tragically died in an accident involving a wayward firework that struck him in the chest at a Fourth of July party.
Per Sky News, the Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender sadly succumbed to his chest trauma on Sunday night in Novi, Michigan, at the age of 24.
At the time of the incident, the Latvian athlete was in a hot tub as he attempted to avoid the errant firework which came shooting in his direction.
Initially, it was believed Kivlenieks had died from a head injury after slipping while trying to run away, however, preliminary autopsy results revealed on Monday, July 5, that he had sustained fatal chest injuries.
The Blue Jackets released a statement to confirm the passing of their player, which read: "It is with profound sadness that the Columbus Blue Jackets announce goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks passed away last night at the age of 24 as the result of a tragic accident.
"The Riga, Latvia native suffered an apparent head injury in a fall. Medical personnel were called immediately, but he succumbed a short time later."
Blue Jackets President of Hockey Operations John Davidson added: "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," he added.
Lieutenant Jason Meier of the Novi Police department told the Detroit Free Press that an investigation into Kivlenieks's death has been launched, but stated that for now, it will not include a criminal investigation.
He said: "There appears to be some fireworks that accidentally went off and launched in the direction of Mr. Kivlenieks and others who were seated in the hot tub.
"We are still looking at this as a tragic accident. Based on the new information, we definitely want to reinterview people and make sure that we have an accurate depiction of what happened."
