Jimmy Hayes, a former ice hockey player who played for four NHL organizations during his career, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, aged 31.
While Hayes’s cause of death has not yet been disclosed, his death is not considered to be suspicious.
First responders arrived at Hayes’ home in Milton, Mass, before pronouncing him dead on the scene, according to reports.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former @WBSPenguins forward, Jimmy Hayes.
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) August 23, 2021
The Penguins organization sends our thoughts and prayers to Jimmy's family, friends, and former teammates during this extremely difficult time. pic.twitter.com/A6SnLi9oeN
Hayes was survived by his wife, Kristen, and two young sons, Beau and Mac.
The player also leaves behind four siblings: Jennifer, Eileen, Justine, and Kevin, a center for the Philadelphia Flyers.
Hayes last played professionally for the Wilkes-Barrie/Scranton Penguins in 2018-19.
Prior to that, Hayes played in 334 games in the NHL for the New Jersey Devils, Chicago Blackhawks, Florida Panthers, and his hometown Boston Bruins.
Hayes noted won a National Championship with the Boston College Eagles in 2010.
His death ignited a flood of condolences from the hockey world on social media.
A statement from Boston Bruins Captain Patrice Bergeron: pic.twitter.com/SUG5AvPj9Y
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) August 23, 2021
READ: CNN Analyst Dies Suddenly after Suffering ‘Medical Emergency’
Boston College Hockey is heartbroken over the passing of Jimmy Hayes. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Hayes family. pic.twitter.com/2nL59U6Fgs
— BC Men's Hockey (@BC_MHockey) August 23, 2021
READ: Olympic Gold Medalist, 43, Dies Suddenly from Cardiac Arrest
Shocking to hear about Jimmy Hayes' death. I didn't cover him long, but I remember he had a big personality and was really well-liked in the Blackhawks room. Just 31. Man.
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) August 23, 2021
READ: Son of New Zealand MP Dies Suddenly at 22
Completely lost for words. Jimmy Hayes was one of the best dudes ever. My thoughts are with his wife, two boys and the entire Hayes family. A true legend in every aspect of the world who will be very, very missed.
— Mike Grinnell (@MikeGrinnell_) August 23, 2021
RAD: Former NBA Player Darius Morris, 33, Dies Suddenly
Man what’s going on in this world..so sad to hear about Jimmy Hayes news ..only played a short time with you but one of the best guys I have met..condolences to family and friends 🙏🏼 #RIP
— grabs40 🇦🇹🇺🇸 (@grabs40) August 23, 2021
READ: Former NFL Star, 28, Dies Suddenly and Unexpectedly
We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Jimmy Hayes.
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 23, 2021
His warm personality made an immediate impact in the locker room and with our fans. We’re proud of the memories he made in Chicago, including making his NHL debut in 2011. Sending our thoughts and prayers to his family❤️ pic.twitter.com/gP8357luB9
READ: Internationally Renowned Footballer, 44, Dies Unexpectedly
I am so, so sorry to hear about Jimmy Hayes. Believe me when I say he lit up every locker room he entered (as well as any silly marketing project we ever asked of him). Keep his loved ones in your thoughts.
— Sarah Baicker (@sbbaicker) August 23, 2021
READ: Former NFL Cornerback Vontae Davis, 35, Dies Suddenly
Former Panthers forward Jimmy Hayes has passed away. Just 31 years old. Amazingly nice man, always had a smile during his days in Sunrise. Condolences to his family 🙏🏼🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/4fp9sEhq6r
— David Dwork (@DavidDwork) August 23, 2021
