Connection” line member Rick Martin was killed in a car crash on Sunday, according to a source.The accident occurred at Main Street and Salt Road in Clarence around noon Sunday. Eyewitnesses say Martin’s car crossed a lane of traffic and hit a pole.
State police responded to the scene and are expected to provide more detail later in the day.
Martin and his “French Connection” linemates Gilbert Perreault and Rene Robert are some of the most famous Sabres of all time. The trio recently appeared with new Sabres owner Terry Pegula on ice for a reunion at HSBC Arena just days after Pegula took ownership of the organization.
Martin played in 10 NHL seasons with the Buffalo Sabres from 1971 – 1981.
The Buffalo Sabres Released a statement on Sunday afternoon:
The Buffalo Sabres are saddened to announce the passing of Buffalo Sabres Hall of Famer and member of the famed French Connection, Rick Martin. Rick was not only one of the greatest players in franchise history, he was a great friend to the Sabres organization and the entire community. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Sabres organization go out to his wife Mikey and their two sons, Corey and Josh.