Blue Jackets establish memorial fund in Matiss Kivlenieks' memory

The hockey world is still coming to terms with the tragic loss of Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks, who tragically lost his life in a fireworks accident at the suburban Detroit home of goaltending coach Manny Legace during a 4th of July party. Kivlenieks was struck in the chest by an errant firework mortar blast and succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital, with the cause of death being listed as chest trauma which triggered major damage to his heart and lungs.

Local police have investigated the tragedy as an accident, and have since submitted their report to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office for review. 

“We completed our investigation and turned in a report to the prosecutor for review on Friday,” said Novi Police Lt. Jason Meier. “It was investigated as an accident and we did not request any charges.”

Since then, the Blue Jackets have announced the creation of a memorial fund in the late goaltender's memory. 

The team has created the Matiss Kivlenieks Memorial Fund, which is joined by founder John H. McConnell's family and the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation. Funds will go to support youth hockey initiatives in both Columbus and Lativa and will be matched up to $80,000. 

"Our focus has been on family, both Matiss' in Latvia and our own Blue Jackets family here and we're doing everything we can to support everyone," said John Davidson, Blue Jackets president of hockey operations during a July 7 press conference. "I'd also like to thank our fans, the Columbus community and the hockey world for the outpouring of love they've showed Kivi these past three days. It's been spectacular. The prayers and messages of support have been overwhelming and very much appreciated by all of us."

"I ask that you keep the Legace family, who considered Kivi a son and a brother, in your prayers as they are understandably distraught," Davidson continued. "I would also ask you do the same for Elvis Merzlikins and his wife, Aleksandra. They were Kivi's closest friends, and they were with him that night. This is a devastating loss for them and for all of us, and one that will always be with us."