Bobby Ryan addresses relapse and arrest in moving statement:

This has been a tough story to read. But some hope came through on Wednesday morning when Bobby Ryan himself opened up about what happened on Monday.

According to Scoop Nashville, Ryan was arrested at the Nashville International Airport where a store reported that Ryan had taken items and left without paying and alerted Airport Police. Authorities took a look at the security cameras and noticed how Ryan left the stolen items on a counter along his way and entered Little Harpeth Brewing, where officers found him seated at the bar ordering a drink.

The report indicates that Ryan was not compliant and was inebriated, so much so that he did not know where he was, the date, or the time, and could not stand on his own. He was booked into the Metro Nashville Jail on July 25th, charged with public intoxication, since the store declined prosecution on the recovered items. He was released with charges dismissed after the standard 8 hour public intox hold.

On Wednesday, Ryan took to social media to thank people who have sent him messages and commented on the incident:

“I’ve had so many incredible messages today. Thank you for all of them. Today is day 1 (again). Mostly embarrassed, but I shouldn’t be. Today I’m waking up and choosing better.”

Ryan was awarded the NHL’s Masterton Trophy previously after a battle with alcohol abuse. The award goes to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. He knows he can do this.

Back in February 2020, then-Ottawa Senators Ryan admitted to dealing with alcohol addiction and finally getting some help. He took an extended leave of absence from the Senators starting in November 2019 to enter the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, citing his issues with alcohol abuse. In a shortened season, due to COVID, Ryan still managed to put up eight points in 24 games. He has played in the NHL since his last game as a member of the Detroit Red Wings on March 28, 2021.

A new journey now begins and Ryan has our full support.