Hamilton Police say the coroner has confirmed former NHL goaltender Ray Emery’s cause of death was drowning.
Officers were were called about a report of a possible drowning near Leander Boat Club, near Pier 4 Park around 6 a.m., Sunday.
Police say Emery jumped off a boat to go swimming but did not resurface.
With the help of the Niagara Regional Police dive unit, the 35-year old’s body was pulled from the water around 3 p.m.
Police did not give many details about what happened but say they believe it was a case of misadventure.
An autopsy was performed on Monday.
Emery had been living in Ancaster and had laced up his skates on Saturday for a charity hockey game.
Throughout his 11-year career, he played for several NHL teams including the Ottawa Senators and Philadelphia Flyers.
He won the Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013.
Tributes from his former teams and teammates have been pouring in on social media.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ray’s family and friends. Rest in peace, Razor. pic.twitter.com/fInQmuXCWJ
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) July 15, 2018
So sad to hear the tragic news about Ray Emery- was a great teammate and person #rip
— James van Riemsdyk (@JVReemer21) July 15, 2018
Ray was a great teammate and an even better friend. Rest in peace Razor. I’ll miss you man. pic.twitter.com/NNHNc1Swyd
— Claude Giroux (@28CGiroux) July 15, 2018
Emery played junior hockey for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, where Toronto Maple Leafs GM Kyle Dubas began his career.
“Ray’s smile and intelligence made him a magnetic personality,” Dubas wrote.
“You always rooted for him to reach his vast potential, even as he went through the many ups and downs of his playing career.”
On the passing of Ray Emery… pic.twitter.com/aR17IBFE0d
— Kyle Dubas (@kyledubas) July 15, 2018
Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk also released a statement expressing condolences.
“Ray was instrumental in our run to the 2007 Stanley Cup Final, and at his best he brought a competitive edge and combative mentality to the game,” he said.
“On behalf of our entire organization, I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to Ray’s family, friends and loved ones.”
