Claude Lemieux, a former National Hockey League (NHL) star and four-time Stanley Cup champion, was found dead in an apparent suicide, according to a statement from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. The 60-year-old hockey legend was discovered by one of his sons in the warehouse of their family-owned furniture store, Andros Home, in Lake Park, Florida, early Thursday morning.
Lemieux, a beloved figure in the world of professional hockey, played for the New Jersey Devils and was renowned for his aggressive style of play. He was a key player in the Devils’ Stanley Cup victories in 1995 and 2000, and also won the prestigious trophy with the Montreal Canadiens in 1986 and the Colorado Avalanche in 1996. In addition to his Stanley Cup wins, Lemieux was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1995, a testament to his significant contributions to the Devils’ success.
His daughter, Claudia, confirmed that the family had gathered in Palm Beach and were cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The identity of the son who found Lemieux has not been disclosed. The family’s business, Andros Home, is a purveyor of high-end furniture and architectural elements in the coastal city of Lake Park.
Lemieux’s death comes as a shock to the hockey community, especially as he had recently participated in a ceremonial event at Montreal’s Bell Centre, marking the start of Game 3 of the NHL’s Eastern Conference finals. Known for his tenacity on the ice, Lemieux was a formidable opponent and a fan favorite.
The New Jersey Devils released a statement expressing their deep sorrow over Lemieux’s passing. They praised his significant contributions to the team, particularly his role in securing the franchise’s first-ever Stanley Cup. The statement also highlighted Lemieux’s off-ice contributions to the NHL, noting his respected status as a trusted agent and valued colleague.
In addition to his illustrious hockey career, Lemieux had a few run-ins with the law, including citations for driving with a suspended license and speeding. However, these incidents did not overshadow his legacy in the NHL and his impact on the sport.