Former NHL enforcer Link Gaetz wanted for assault on Maple Ridge cabbie

Ex-NHLer Link Gaetz, 57, faces assault and mischief charges after allegedly attacking a taxi driver in Maple Ridge, B.C. An arrest warrant has been issued.

Arrest warrant issued for ex-NHL enforcer after unprovoked cab attack in B.C.

Former NHL player Link Gaetz, known in hockey circles as "The Missing Link," is wanted by Maple Ridge RCMP following an alleged unprovoked assault on a taxi driver last September, Toronto Sun Crime reports.

Gaetz, 57, from Mission, B.C., faces one count of assault and one count of mischief under $5,000. Maple Ridge RCMP announced the charges on Thursday, noting that police were able to identify the suspect with help from the public.

According to police, the incident took place on Sept. 17, 2025, at approximately 2:45 p.m. The taxi driver had picked up Gaetz at an unspecified establishment and was directed to a drop-off location. Before reaching the destination, Gaetz allegedly ordered the driver to stop and immediately began striking him.

The driver sustained injuries to his face as a result of multiple punches. Gaetz then allegedly attempted to smash the vehicle's CCTV camera and broke the windshield before fleeing on foot.

Officers responded to the scene and searched the area, supported by Integrated Police Dog Services and air services. Despite the efforts, Gaetz was not located. Investigators subsequently canvassed for additional witnesses and reviewed video surveillance footage. The victim was offered victim services assistance.

An outstanding arrest warrant remains in effect.

Hockey career

Gaetz was selected by the Minnesota North Stars in the second round of the 1988 NHL Entry Draft. He played primarily as an enforcer, appearing in 65 NHL games split between the North Stars and the San Jose Sharks between 1988 and 1992.

He also suited up in 21 games for the AHL's Cape Breton Oilers during the 1993–94 season but did not return to the NHL after that. Throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s, Gaetz continued his career across several minor leagues, including the IHL, ECHL, Sunshine Hockey League, and the Ligue Nord-Américaine de Hockey in Quebec. He wrapped up his professional playing days in the 2006–07 season with the Horse Lake Thunder of the North Peace Hockey League.

Public asked for help

Gaetz is described as six-foot-four, 252 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact Maple Ridge RCMP at 604-463-6251.

Source: Toronto Sun Crime