NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Former Predator Wade Belak, an enforcer who had played with five NHL teams before retiring in March, was found
dead Wednesday in Toronto. He was 35.

Belak is the third NHL enforcer found dead since May. The Predators learned of Belak’s death from NHL security and the team issued a statement saying the organization was shocked and sadden by his sudden and untimely death.

“Wade was a beloved member of the organization, a terrific teammate and wonderful father and husband who will be greatly missed,” according to the Predators’ statement. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Jennifer and children Andie and Alex. We offer our full support to them at this very difficult time.”

Toronto police spokesman Tony Vella said officers found a man dead when called at 1:40 p.m. EDT Wednesday at a hotel and condo complex. Vella said “foul play is not suspected in the ongoing investigation” into Belak’s death.

Belak was scheduled to work as a sideline reporter on Nashville television broadcasts this season. The 6-foot-5, 233-pound forward played for Colorado, Calgary, Toronto, Florida and finished his career with Nashville, playing in 549 career NHL games with eight goals, 25 assists and 1,263
penalty minutes.

He fought 136 times during his 14-year NHL career, according to hockeyfights.com. Belak is the third NHL tough guy who has died this offseason.