Former NHL forward Chris Simon has tragically passed away by suicide, his family confirmed to ESPN. He was 52 years old.
According to a statement released by Simon’s former agent, Paul Theofanous, his family believes he struggled with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease often associated with repetitive head trauma. The family expressed deep sorrow over their loss and requested privacy during this difficult time.
Simon, known for his physical style of play, engaged in over 100 fights and accrued over 1,800 penalty minutes throughout his 15-year NHL career. He faced suspension eight times, totaling 65 games. The New York Islanders, with whom Simon played for two seasons, shared their condolences along with a photo of him in an Islanders uniform, highlighting his contributions both on and off the ice.
Ex-Rangers, Islanders enforcer Chris Simon died by suicide: family https://t.co/BylXITfRH8 pic.twitter.com/OmbDIPDwtN
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) March 20, 2024
Drafted 25th overall in the 1990 NHL Draft, Simon reached the Stanley Cup Final three times, winning it in 1996 with the Colorado Avalanche. He concluded his career with 144 goals and 161 assists before retiring in 2008.
Former teammates and the NHL community mourned Simon’s passing, remembering him as a fierce competitor and a kind individual. The league also released a statement expressing condolences to Simon’s family, friends, and former teammates.
