Denver, Colorado (CBS) In a surprising and unexpected development off the ice, Colorado Avalanche backup goaltender Alex Reid was sentenced today to 90 days in county jail and 18 months probation after being found guilty of fleeing the scene of a hit-and-run accident in Downtown Denver. The NHL moved quickly, imposing an indefinite suspension under its Personal Conduct Policy.
Court Ruling and Incident Details
According to court filings, the incident occurred on April 12, when Reid’s vehicle collided with a person near 17th and California Street at around 2 a.m. Surveillance footage shows that the goalkeeper briefly stopped before driving away without offering assistance or notifying authorities. The pedestrian, later identified as a 42-year-old guy, had a fractured leg and concussion.
Judge Maria Hernandez described the offense as “reckless and morally reprehensible” as she sentenced him in Denver District Court. Reid’s guilty judgment resulted in a 90-day jail sentence, probation, obligatory community service, a three-year driving suspension, and placement in a victim empathy and substance evaluation program.
“Accountability isn’t just for celebrities; it’s expected of everyone,” Judge Hernandez added. “Reid will serve time, reflect, and pay restitution.”
NHL and Team Response
Within hours of the verdict, the NHL issued the following formal statement:
“In light of the conviction, the league has imposed an indefinite suspension on Alex Reid under its Personal Conduct Policy. The duration of the ban will be determined once legal appeals are resolved.”
The Colorado Avalanche organization also released a brief statement.
“We are very saddened by today’s ruling. We appreciate the court’s verdict and support the league’s disciplinary actions. Mr. Reid will fully meet all legal and professional duties. Our top priority is the wellbeing of individuals affected, and we extend our best wishes to the pedestrian involved in this event.”
Reid’s Team and Career Impact
Reid, 27, signed a one-year, reduced contract with the Avalanche last offseason and serves as the primary backup to starter goaltender Alexandar Georgiev. Reid is projected to miss the whole 2025-26 NHL season if all appeals fail.
Speaking before practice this morning, head coach Jared Bednar described the situation as “deeply disappointing.”
“It’s never easy,” Bednar explained. “Alex made a mistake with major consequences—legal, professional, and emotional. We must move forward as a team and pray for healing for all parties.”
At least two players have privately expressed worries to CBS Sports about Reid’s actions, admitting that the incident has rattled the locker room. However, the squad remains focused on the ice, with a depth chart change already planned to fill the goaltender position.
Looking ahead
Reid may appeal his sentencing in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, authorities and the victim’s family are expected to discuss restitution, and civil lawsuits may follow. Regardless of the verdict, the Avalanche will have a difficult year both on and off the ice as they deal with a severe legal breach by one of their rostered players.
This is the first time an NHL player has been sentenced to jail for a hit-and-run while on contract, setting a precedent that will undoubtedly influence future conduct, league policy, and team accountability.