Ex-NHLer Chris Simon's Family Reveals His Death Was A Suicide, Cites Struggles With CTE

The hockey world was in mourning on Tuesday after news that Stanley Cup champion and one of the toughest players of his era, Chris Simon, had died. 

He was just 52 years old.

Since then, his family released a statement through his former agent, Paul Theofanous, which confirmed that the Wawa, Ontario native's death was a suicide. 

Furthermore, the family's statement said that they believed CTE had played a role in Simon's death.

"The family strongly believes and witnessed firsthand, that Chris struggled immensely from CTE which unfortunately resulted in his death," the statement reads.

"We are grieving with the loss of our son, brother, father, partner, teammate and friend. The entire Wawa community is sharing in our grief. We will not be releasing any further details at this time and ask for privacy during this very difficult time. We appreciate everyone who shares in our tragic loss."

Chris Simpon appeared in nearly 800 games and registered 305 points, as well as more than 1,800 penalty minutes. (Getty Images)

According to Sportsnet, the NHL has disputed any links between playing hockey and developing CTE or other similar brain disorders. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman commented on Simon's death after the news broke.

"We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends," Bettman said. "On all these matters we wait to see what the medical experts tell us.

"Having said that, I think it's well documented all the progress that we've made over the last couple of decades to make the game as safe as possible."

However, it's very hard to overlook the number of former enforcers who have struggled with mental health or addiction once their playing days were over.

There are quite a few notable examples of fighters who died at young ages including Bob Probert, Ricky Rypien, Derek Boogaard, and Wade Belak.

Sadly, Simon is the latest.

Simon registered 1,824 penalty minutes and 305 points in 782 NHL games. He retired from pro hockey in 2013 after playing several seasons in the KHL.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).