Rick Rypien (NHL.COM)
Newly-signed Winnipeg Jets forward Rick Rypien was found dead in his Alberta home Monday.
Globe and Mail reporter James Mirtle broke the story, saying the former Manitoba Moose player was found by family in Crowsnest, Alberta.
The 27-year-old played nine games with the Vancouver Canucks last season, good for an assist and 31 penalty minutes.
True North Sports and Entertainment issued the following statement on Rypien’s passing:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm Rick’s passing. As many people are aware, he had strong ties to True North Sports & Entertainment, the Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club, the former Manitoba Moose Hockey Club and the Vancouver Canucks. We would like to express our sincere sympathies to the Rypien family as well as Rick’s friends. We also appreciate all of the support that has come pouring in from Rick’s fans. Rick was a talented player with an extremely bright future. His hunger for the game made him a valued team member both on and off the ice. This loss has impacted us as more than just a hockey team.”
Alberta RCMP say Rypien’s death is not considered suspicious.
