Oilers release statement on missing prospect Pelss

The Edmonton Oilers are attempting to gather information on the whereabouts of prospect Kristians Pelss, who reportedly has gone missing in Latvia.

According to the Edmonton Journal, unconfirmed reports out of Latvia say Pelss, 20, drowned after jumping into a river. Other reports say his family has denied Pelss has died but confirms he is missing. Police also have not confirmed his death.

"The Edmonton Oilers organization, including the Edmonton Oil Kings, Oklahoma City Barons and affiliate Stockton Thunder, is aware of the reports regarding Kristians Pelss going missing while visiting Riga, Latvia, this week," the Oilers said in a statement released Thursday evening. "There has been contradictory information reported, at times, and we are trying to confirm the facts. Once we are able to do that, we will be able to offer further comment.

"At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Pelss family. Kristians spent two years with the Oil Kings before beginning his pro career in the Oilers system, splitting last season between the Barons and the Thunder."

Pelss was chosen by Edmonton in the seventh round (No. 181) of the 2010 NHL Draft. This season, the forward had eight points (one goal) in 20 games for Oklahoma City. He had 42 goals and 41 assists in 126 regular-season games for the Oil Kings from 2010-12.