Former Shark found dead in Rhode Island

Former San Jose Sharks forward Tom Cavanagh, 28, was found dead Thursday at a Providence, R.I., mall. His death was an apparent suicide.

Police said his body was found in a parking garage at the Providence Place Mall, The Providence Journal reported.

“We are shocked and saddened by the news today of Tom's passing," Sharks general manager Doug Wilson said in a statement. "Tom was an extraordinary young man and a terrific teammate who spent four seasons with our organization. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.”

Cavanaugh was drafted by the Sharks in 2001 after playing for Harvard University. He spent four seasons with the organization playing for teams in Cleveland and Worcester. He is the all-time leader in points and assists for the Worcester Sharks.

He also played 18 games with the Sharks over two seasons (2007-09), recording one goal and two assists. He wasn't playing professional hockey this season.

“He was quiet, but he was the ultimate team guy, and his teammates all liked him," Worcester coach Roy Sommer told the Worcester (Mass.) Telegram & Gazette. "He played with injuries, and every time he went over the wall, you knew what you were gonna get from him. He willed himself to do a lot of things."

Cavanagh's father, Joseph, released a statement regarding his son's death on Friday night, The Providence Journal reported.

"Our son, Tom, was a young man who bravely fought the demons of mental illness for many years," he said. "This private struggle far surpassed his public athletic accomplishments.

“Our family will celebrate and always remember his beautiful but short life."