An NHL ice hockey player has been killed after a tragic incident involving fireworks at a Fourth of July party in the USA.
Matiss Kivlenieks, the goaltender for the Columbus Blue Jackets, died after a 'fireworks malfunction' at a house party he was attending in Novi, Michigan.
The initial autopsy after the accident concluded that the 24-year-old Latvian died as a result of chest trauma caused by a firework blast.
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Kivlenieks had been sitting in a hot tub at the party at the time of the horrific accident.
Initially, the Michigan police investigating the incident had said that he died as a result of a head injury sustained while getting out of the hot tub.
It is believed that some fireworks were unintentionally discharged and went in his direction, resulting in chest trauma from the blast.
Lieutenant Jason Meier 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."
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Meier also confirmed to the Detroit Free Press that Novi Police have launched an investigation into the 24-year-old's death, but said that - for the time being - that inquiry does not include a criminal investigation.
He continued: "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."
The Latvian ice hockey player had signed with the Blue Jackets in 2017, but spent most of his time playing with the Cleveland Monsters in the American Hockey League.
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The Blue Jackets joined the NHL - America's premier ice hockey league - in 2000 as an expansion team.
Kivlenieks had made two appearances in the 2020/2021 season, and six appearances - including four starts - the season before.
He had also represented his country in the World Championships earlier this year.
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The Columbus Blue Jackets' president of hockey operations John Davidson said: "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 organisation will not be forgotten."
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman released a statement that said: "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."
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