Matiss Kivlenieks, NHL Goaltender for Columbus Blue Jackets, Dead at 24.<br />Kivlenieks' death was attributed to chest trauma caused by a fireworks accident that occurred at a party.<br />The Oakland County Chief Medical Examiner in Michigan has ruled the death accidental.<br />Kivlenieks had jumped out of a hot tub to avoid the fireworks malfunction and then slipped on wet concrete, which resulted in a head injury.<br />Members of the NHL community reacted to the sudden news of Kivlenieks' death.<br />"The National Hockey League was saddened to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks." Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner, via CNN.<br />"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." Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner, via CNN.<br />"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." Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner, via CNN.<br />Game four of the Stanley Cup began with a moment of silence to honor the goaltender.
