ANGUS, ON — Ryan Wood, a well-known figure in the local sports community and head of the Purple Cobras youth hockey organization, has died at the age of 41. Originally from Winnipeg, Wood passed away on Wednesday in Angus, Ontario, according to provincial police.
The news was confirmed by Sgt. Joe Brisebois of the OPP, who stated that a man found deceased in the Angus area was identified as Wood. Authorities have confirmed there are no threats to public safety, and the investigation into his death is ongoing.
Wood had been facing a sexual assault charge stemming from an alleged incident in Barrie in May. He made his first court appearance earlier this week, and the case had been adjourned until September 8. His lawyer, Alex McLeod, confirmed the death on Thursday and expressed sympathy for Wood’s family.
“I am heartbroken for Mr. Wood’s family,” McLeod said in a statement.
Police noted that the complainant in the case was not affiliated with the Purple Cobras or any of Wood’s sports programs.
Wood had become a prominent figure in the local hockey scene as the head of the Purple Cobras, an independent youth hockey program primarily serving players between the ages of six and ten. Operating outside the Hockey Canada system, the organization fielded teams year-round, competing during fall/winter as well as in spring and summer leagues.
In response to the allegations, the Klevr Super League (KSL), which oversees some of the competitions the Purple Cobras participated in, suspended the organization last month, prior to any formal charges being laid.
Beyond hockey, Wood had also been involved in coaching junior teams in communities including Tottenham, Bradford, northern Ontario, and Manitoba. He previously served as a billet parent for the Barrie Colts for three seasons—a role the team discontinued after learning of the charges against him.
Outside the rink, Wood had a background in professional wrestling, performing under the name “Red Hot” Ryan Wood, and was active in the local slo-pitch softball community.
As investigations continue, the sports community is grappling with the sudden loss of a figure who had long been involved in grassroots athletics, even as questions remained surrounding the recent criminal allegations.