Prosecutor to review death of Blue Jackets' Matiss Kivlenieks

Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks tragically died July 4 at the home of Columbus goaltending coach Manny Legace in Novi, Mich., after an accident involving fireworks left him with a fatal chest trauma. 

According to The Associated Press (h/t ESPN), the Novi Police Department is not requesting charges related to Kivlenieks' passing, and the investigation has been turned over to a prosecutor for review. 

"Due to the high-profile nature, we wanted an extra set of eyes [on the case]," Lt. Jason Meier explained Monday. It was said last week that Kivlenieks' death was considered a "tragic accident," and Meier reiterated that stance. 

Kivlenieks, who would've turned 25 years old next month, was reportedly inside a hot tub when he tried to avoid being struck by an errant firework. He was later pronounced dead at a hospital. 

Across eight NHL appearances, he recorded a 3.09 goals-against average and a 0.899 save percentage. He spent time with the Cleveland Monsters of the American Hockey League during the 2020-21 season.