Former NHL player Bobby Ryan was arrested at the Nashville International Airport earlier this week on charges of public intoxication after he was seen stealing items from an airport store. The former Anaheim Duck and Ottawa Senator has a lengthy history of substance abuse.
According to Scoop Nashville, Bobby Ryan a former National Hockey League (NHL) winger was arrested on Monday at the Nashville International Airport (BNA) on charges of public intoxication. According to the warrant for his arrest, Ryan was seen stealing items from an airport store while awaiting a flight. The shopkeeper reported the incident to airport police who observed the act on camera. The authorities then found Ryan in a nearby airport bar and approached him.
Ryan was highly intoxicated and did not know the date or time or where he was non-compliant with the authorities. He was subsequently taken into custody on charges of public intoxication. The owner of the store declined to press charges.
Ryan has a long history of battling substance abuse including a 2019 absence from the league to join an NHL player assistance program for folks with substance abuse issues. He later rejoined the league and was awarded the Masterson Trophy – an award for those who exemplify sportsmanship, perseverance and dedication to the sport of hockey.
Later this week, Ryan shared multiple tweets on the matter appearing to claim responsibilities for his relapse and thanking folks for their support.
