Terrible news breaking on twitter this evening. Ex-Canuck and recently signed Winnipeg Jet Rick Rypien was found dead in his Alberta home today.

The NHL tough guy battled personal issues last season, particularly after being suspended for tussling with a Minnesota Wild fan. The Canucks organization suspended Rypien for period after that before he returned to action for Vancouver’s AHL club, the Manitoba Moose.

The Coleman Alberta native was just 27 year old. He played junior in the WHL for the Regina Pats and, although just 5’11" and 194 pounds, was more than capable at handling himself in a fight. He appeared in 119 NHL games, scoring 9 goals and 7 assists.

More news to come. For now, my sincere condolences to Rypien’s friends and family.

Edit from RC – Mirtle adds more at the Globe and Mail.