Derek Boogaard: New York Rangers Forward Reportedly Found Dead in Minnesota

Tragedy has struck the National Hockey League, as it has been announced that New York Rangers forward Derek Boogaard was found dead in his Minneapolis apartment on Friday.

The news was first broken by Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune via Twitter less than an hour ago. Boogaard was found by members of his family, and his cause of death has yet to be determined. He was 28 years old.

Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather has just issued a statement regarding Boogaard's sudden death. Courtesy of the team's official website:

"

Derek was an extremely kind and caring individual. He was a very thoughtful person, who will be dearly missed by all those who knew him. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.

"

Boogaard just finished his first season with the Rangers, notching two points in 22 games. He started his career with the Minnesota Wild in 2005, several years after they drafted him in 2001. He emerged as one of the best enforcers in the NHL, and quickly became a fan favorite in Minnesota and elsewhere.

While Boogaard was a menace on the ice, racking up 589 penalty minutes during his career, Minnesota Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom told Russo that Boogaard was much different off the ice.

Said Backstrom, "Unreal guy. Just a really big teddy bear. Outside the rink, he didn't want bad for anyone."