Former Capitals Enforcer Stephen Peat Dies At 44 After Accident

Former Washington Capitals forward Stephen Beat has died following an accident over two weeks ago, the NHL Alumni Association announced on Thursday. He was 44 years old.

"The Washington Capitals extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of former Capitals player Stephen Peat. Peat played 130 games in the National Hockey League, all with Washington from 2001-05," the Capitals said in a statement published on social media. "Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time."

Peat was originally drafted by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in the second round of the 1998 NHL Draft (32nd overall), but his rights were eventually traded to the Capitals.

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The enforcer was known for his grit and physicality on the ice, and he worked his way from Washington's AHL-affiliate Portland Pirates to the Capitals roster in 2001-02. In 38 NHL games his rookie season, he had four points and 85 penalty minutes.

Peat would split time between Washington and Portland/Hershey over the next few years, racking up 10 points and 234 penalty minutes in 130 games at the NHL level and seven points and 555 penalty minutes in 50 games at the AHL level.

The right winger also played for the famed Danbury Trashers during the 2004-05 lockout season, picking up one assist and 45 penalty minutes through seven UHL games.

Per HockeyFights.com , Peat was in 90 fights over the course of his career.

"In the wake of this tragic accident, Stephen will be helping to save numerous lives through organ donation," the NHL Alumni Association said in a statement. "We send our deepest condolences to Stephen’s family, friends, and former teammates during this difficult time."