America rocked by sudden death of 31-year-old star: ‘We lost our brother’

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The cause of death was not immediately known but foul play was not suspected, according to the Boston Globe, which cited local authorities and first responders.

Hayes was pronounced dead at his home in Milton, a suburb of Boston, the outlet reported.

According to Instagram posts Sunday from his wife, Kristen, Hayes and his family celebrated the birthday of their 2-year-old son, Beau, over the weekend.

Hayes (centre) holds his two children at a birthday party to celebrate his two-year-old son, Beau.

Hayes (centre) holds his two children at a birthday party to celebrate his two-year-old son, Beau.Source:Instagram

Hayes and his wife Kristen.

Hayes and his wife Kristen.Source:Instagram

Hayes with his wife and child.

Hayes with his wife and child.Source:Instagram

Known for his big frame as much as his outsized personality, the 6-foot-5, 215-pound right winger had 54 goals and 109 points in 334 games over seven NHL seasons, the last of which came with New Jersey in 2017-18.

“When I think of a ‘locker room guy’ I think of Jimmy ‘Broadway’ Hayes,” former Devil Blake Coleman tweeted.

“Very devastating news, he will be missed by so many, he always brought a smile to the rink in our time together in New Jersey.”

The Devils said that Hayes’ “infectious personality and easygoing nature were contagious to all who spent time with him. He had a tremendous ability to make everyone feel welcome. You will be missed, Jimmy.”

After being selected in the second round of the 2008 draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs, Hayes starred for his hometown Boston College and won a national title in 2010, when he tallied 35 points in 42 games.

Following a trade from Toronto, Hayes made his debut with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2011 and also played for the Bruins and Panthers.

Hayes had settled with his family in Boston after his playing days.

Hayes had settled with his family in Boston after his playing days.Source:Instagram

Hayes also played for the Tampa Bay Lightning. (Photo by Andy Marlin/NHLI via Getty Images)

Hayes also played for the Tampa Bay Lightning. (Photo by Andy Marlin/NHLI via Getty Images)Source:Getty Images

Hayes last played professionally in the 2018-19 season with the minor league affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

After his playing days ended, Hayes joined “Missin Curfew,” a hockey and lifestyle podcast with other former NHLers Shane O’Brien and Scottie Upshall.

“We lost our brother today,” read a tweet from the podcast’s account. “Goodbye Jimmy, we will love you forever.”

In addition to Kristen and their 2-year-old, Hayes is survived by the couple’s 3-month-old boy, Mac; Hayes’ parents, Shelagh and Kevin Sr.; and siblings Genevieve, Eileen, Justine and Kevin, also an NHL player.

Kevin Hayes currently plays for the Flyers. The 29-year-old similarly starred at Boston College, before spending five seasons with the Rangers.

– New York Post