Matiss Kivlenieks: Columbus Blue Jackets goalie dies fleeing hot tub in 4 July fireworks accident

Initial reports suggested the goalie died after hitting his head on concrete.

Blue Jackets Kivlenieks Hockey (Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

A goalie for the Columbus Blue Jackets NHL team has died after a Fourth of July fireworks incident.

Matiss Kivlenieks, 24, died while trying to get out of a hot tub to escape injury from a firework.

He was pronounced dead at hospital on Sunday night.

Police said during the party, a mortar-style firework tilted and began firing into the crowd. Mr Kivlenieks was sitting in a hot tub and tried to escape, but slipped on his way out.

An autopsy took place on Monday and produced a different account of the incident.

According to the medical examiner who conducted the autopsy, Mr Kivlenieks died of chest trauma that suggests he was hit by a firework.

It is unclear why initial reports described Mr Kivlenieks’ injuries as head injuries caused by a fall rather than chest injuries caused by a small explosion.

First responders arrived at the private residence around 10:13pm on Sunday night. Mr Kivlenieks was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The NHL star's death was confirmed by the Blue Jackets and the Latvian Hockey Federation on Monday morning.

John Davidson, the Blue Jacket's president of hockey operations, issued a statement memorialising the player.

“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,” he wrote. “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.”

The NHL also released a statement.

“The National Hockey League was saddened to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of goaltender Matiss Kilvlenieks. On behalf of the NHL family, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and teammates in both the Blue Jackets organisation 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,” the statement read.