On Friday, May 14, New York Rangers enforcer Derek Boogaard was found dead by his family members in his Minneapolis apartment where he was spending his offseason. He was age 28.

An autopsy is scheduled on Saturday.

According to the official website of New York Rangers, its President and General Manager Glen Sather said, Derek was an extremely kind and caring individual. He was a very thoughful person, who will be dearly missed by all those who knew him. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and teemmates during this difficult time.

The Minnesota Wild organization sends our deepest sympathies to the family of Derek Boogaard. Derek was a fan favorite during his five seasons with the WIld and will be greatly missed here in Minnesota and throughout the NHL. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Boogarard family during this tragic time of loss, the Wild stated.

Boogaard began his career with the Minnesota Wild from 2005-2010. He joined the Rangers on July 1, 2010, signing a four-year, $6.5 million deal with Rangers. Limited by his shoulder injury, he appeared in 22 games in the 2010-11 season, where he had an goal and an assist to go with 45 penalty minutes.

Though he was one of the most feared and respected enforcers in NHL, Boogaard had a soft side away from the ice. He was hosting military members and their families at all New York Rangers home games, which program he created and named 'Boogaard's Booguardians. He was actively working with non-profit charities, to support children and military families.

Authorities have released few details about his death. On Friday, a spokesman for the Hennepin County Meidcal Examiner said, A cause and manner will be confirmed after the autopsy, which will be done tomorrow, CNN reported.

New York New York