The former NHL defenseman’s life was cut short in a tragic turn of events on the slopes, leaving the hockey world in mourning and his family heartbroken.

Tomáš Klouček has died following a skiing accident in Czechia. He was 45. He was enjoying the final days of the winter season when tragedy struck on the slopes of Špindlerův Mlýn.

On Sunday, March 16, 2025, Tomáš collided with an electricity distribution box at the edge of the slope. Despite wearing a helmet and the post being protected with padding, the impact proved fatal.

Rescue teams responded quickly, but their efforts were in vain. “The mountain rescue team was on site, along with an air ambulance from Liberec and paramedics from Vrchlabí. But his injuries were too severe,” said Jan Král from the mountain rescue service.

Tomáš’ passing has left the hockey community and his loved ones heartbroken. His wife, Barbora Kloučková, confirmed his death in a heartfelt Instagram post, on Monday, March 17.

“I can’t even begin to put into words the unimaginable pain I’m feeling right now. Yesterday, after a tragic accident, my husband, my universe, my love, the father of our children, and your dear friend, Tomáš Klouček, left us forever,” she wrote. “He had so many of you around him, and you deserve to know.”

Shortly after announcing the tragic news of her husband’s demise, Barbora shared what would be their final photo together — a black-and-white image of the couple wearing ski helmets and goggles, smiling against a snowy mountain backdrop.

Reflecting on that moment, she wrote, “This is very difficult for me to share because, at that moment, we were happy, and nothing was missing. But within just five minutes, my world was turned upside down, and everything changed. Until something like this happens, you don’t realize how much we take the little things for granted. Appreciate what you have, tell your loved ones you love them, and never take happiness for granted. Our last photo together.”

Days later, Kloučková expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, acknowledging how difficult the loss had been. “This is incredibly hard and impossible to put into words, and I won’t lie, it hurts beyond measure,” she shared.

Despite her grief, she was touched by the number of people reaching out. Messages came from all over the world, including Kazakhstan, Canada, France, the USA, and Slovakia. Friends, classmates, neighbors, and even strangers sent condolences and shared their own painful experiences.

“What truly struck me was the number of messages from strangers—some expressing their condolences, others sharing their own painful stories with me,” she wrote, adding that she was thankful for the love and support surrounding her. “I’m grateful that Tom had you all, and that I have you too.”

The NHL Alumni Association honored Tomáš with a heartfelt tribute, mourning his passing at the age of 45. “The NHL Alumni Association is heartbroken to learn that Tomáš Klouček has passed away,” the statement read.

Born in Prague, Klouček was drafted by the New York Rangers in the fifth round of the 1998 NHL Entry Draft after three seasons with HC Slavia Praha Jr.

That same year, he moved to North America to join the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles of the QMJHL before spending a season with the Hartford Wolfpack, the Rangers’ AHL affiliate.

Tomáš made his NHL debut on November 12, 2000, in a game against the Phoenix Coyotes. On January 16, 2001, he scored his first NHL goal, beating fellow Czech native Roman Čechmánek.

During his rookie season, he played 43 games for the Rangers before suffering a serious knee injury. Despite the setback, he remained a resilient and tough defenseman, earning recognition for his dedication on the ice.

Throughout his NHL career, he played 141 games, recording two goals and eight assists while making his mark with the Rangers, Nashville Predators, and Atlanta Thrashers.

After his time in the NHL, Tomáš played for HC Zlín in Czechia before continuing his career in the KHL with Barys Astana and Lev Poprad. He later returned to Czechia and, in 2013-14, won a Slovak Extraliga championship. His career concluded after playing in both Czechia and France, retiring in 2017.

“We send our deepest condolences to Tomáš’ friends, family, and former teammates during this incredibly difficult time,” the NHL Alumni Association wrote, recognizing his lasting impact on the hockey community.

His ex team, the New York Rangers, also shared their condolences, posting on X, “We are saddened to learn of Tomáš’ passing. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.”

Former Rangers captain Mark Messier also paid tribute, calling Tomáš a “great kid” with a “great attitude” and a “gentle soul.”

Tomáš’ former teams also expressed their sorrow. Oceláři Třinec, where he played 90 games, shared, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Tomáš Klouček. The tough defenseman played 90 games for Oceláři. We send our deepest sympathies and strength to his family and loved ones. Our sincere condolences.”

On March 19, 2025, Madison Square Garden, home of the New York Rangers, paid tribute to Tomáš with a moment of silence, honoring his contributions to the hockey world.

Beyond hockey, Tomáš was a devoted husband and father. He and Barbora were raising their two children, nine-year-old Honzík and seven-year-old Karolína, with a shared love for sports.

A recent family photo from December 2024, taken during the holiday season, showed the four of them smiling in front of a Christmas tree — a moment of joy before the heartbreaking loss.

Tomáš’ death leaves a profound void in the hockey community and among those who loved him.