At the time his body had just been found in the Dugava River, confirming his death after he went missing earlier that week. According to a translated article from the Latvian newspaper Diena, Pelss’ death was an accident. He had decided that he wanted to go swimming after partying with some friends at a local club. His friends had advised him against going swimming, but he went down to the river to go swimming anyway. As we already knew that did not end so well for the young Pelss.

It is very sad to see a young player have a promising life cut so very short by a bad decision. If he had only listened to his friends he would still be playing hockey and having fun like any young person. Kristians, may you rest in peace.

Just as a public service, drinking and swimming is never a good idea. Like drinking and driving, just don’t do it.

Edmonton Oilers prospect Kristians Pelss’ body was recovered from the Dugava River in Latvia on Friday. Emergency services in Riga, Pelss’ hometown were contacted when a passerby saw a person jump from a bridge crossing the Dugava River early last Tuesday morning. The police searched right after they arrived on the scene but only found his clothing. Police have yet to confirm whether his death was accidental or suicide.

The young man of only 20 years old was drafted in 2010 by the Oilers. He spent last season with their AHL affiliate the Oklahoma City Barons and Stockton Thunder of the ECHL. No matter your affiliation in the hockey world it is a sad day when a tragedy like this happens.

I know the Oilers and the Barons are not my normal beat on Puckbuddys but I will be following this story closely.