Former Washington Capitals enforcer Stephen Peat tragically lost his life after being struck by an oncoming vehicle while crossing a street, according to authorities in British Columbia.
The 44-year-old Canadian was fatally injured in late August in Langley, a town situated between Vancouver and the U.S. border. On August 30, local police reported that a pedestrian, later identified as Peat, was critically injured when hit by a car at around 4:15 a.m.
Peat, a 6-foot-2, 230-pound enforcer, had a notable NHL career, registering eight goals, two assists, and amassing 234 penalty minutes in 130 games. Drafted 32nd overall by Anaheim in 1998, he was later traded to Washington in 2000 after completing his junior career.
In 2004-05, Peat made a brief appearance with the infamous Danbury Trashers of the United Hockey League, where he recorded an assist and 45 penalty minutes in seven games. His professional hockey career concluded during the 2006-07 season, when he played one game for Albany in the American Hockey League.
The Washington Capitals expressed their condolences on social media, stating: “The Washington Capitals extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of former Capitals player Stephen Peat. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”
Additionally, the NHL Alumni Association shared that Peat’s tragic death will have a life-saving impact, as he was an organ donor.
This heartbreaking incident follows the recent tragic loss of NHL veteran Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matt, who were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while cycling in New Jersey. The brothers, aged 31 and 29, were on the eve of serving as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
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