MINNEAPOLIS -- Former Minnesota Wild forward Derek Boogaard was found dead in his Minneapolis apartment on Friday.

Boogaard, 28, was found by members of his family.

The cause of death is not known.

Boogaard played for the Minnesota Wild for five years and was one of their more popular players. He joined the New York Rangers last year.

Known as the "Boogeyman" when he played for the Wild, Boogaard was the team's tough guy; the team's enforcer. He was also one of the club's most popular players during the five years he played for Minnesota.

The Wild released this statement late Friday night:

"The Minnesota Wild organization sends our deepest sympathies to the family of Derek Boogaard. Derek was a fan favorite during his five seasons with the Wild and will be greatly missed here in Minnesota and throughout the NHL. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Boogaard family during this tragic time of loss."

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