Ryan Wood, a youth hockey coach and head of the Purple Cobras hockey organization in Barrie, passed away on June 18, 2025, at the age of 41.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) confirmed that Wood died by suicide in Angus, just outside Barrie, leaving his wife and two kids in disbelief.
He was a devoted father to a son and a daughter. However, details of his wife and children remain unknown.
The investigation into his death is ongoing. Whereas, Barrie police declined to comment further to respect the judicial process and prevent revictimization.
This tragic event comes shortly after he was recently charged with sexual assault stemming from an alleged incident in Barrie on May 11, 2025.
Later, Wood was arrested on May 20, 2025. The case was subject to a publication ban to protect the complainant’s identity and was scheduled to return to court on September 8, 2025.
In fact, the allegations were never tested in court.
Woods’ lawyer, Alex McLeod, maintained his innocence by saying, “Ryan Wood maintains his innocence and has confidence in the criminal justice system.“
The allegations weren’t connected to his work with the Purple Cobras or the Barrie Colts, where he had served as a billet parent for three seasons. In fact, the accusations were never tested in court.
The Purple Cobras, a youth hockey program for players aged 6 to 10, was a significant part of Wood’s life.
The team competed in the Klevr Super League (KSL); however, KSL suspended Wood and the Purple Cobras on May 27, 2025, after the allegations surfaced.
Likewise, the Barrie Colts also ended their association with him upon learning of the charge.
Beyond hockey, Wood was involved in other sports, including coaching junior hockey in Tottenham, Bradford, northern Ontario, and Manitoba.
He also participated in professional wrestling under the name “Red Hot” Ryan Wood and played in local slo-pitch leagues.
Following his death, his lawyer expressed heartbreak for Wood’s family. The Purple Cobras’ future remains uncertain as the KSL considers reinstating the team under new ownership.
So far, details about funeral arrangements haven’t been shared.
During this difficult time, we offer our condolences to Ryan Wood’s wife, kids, and extended family.
