A 51-year-old father of two from Connecticut fell to his death from the Chase Bridge at Madison Square Garden during a Goose concert on Saturday night, just one day before Father’s Day and while celebrating his 25th wedding anniversary with his wife.

Paul Kueker, a green-energy executive, fatally plunged approximately 150 feet inside the arena shortly before 10 p.m. during the band’s performance. His wife, Kristen, had become concerned after he left to use the restroom and did not return. Police later found her inside the venue and informed her of the tragedy.

Kueker’s mother, Patricia Finelli, spoke through tears about her son, describing him as “the greatest kid in the whole wide world.” She said he was the kind of person who “would give you the shirt off his back” and that he had always taken care of her “like I was a piece of gold.” She also confirmed that he had taken his wife to the concert to mark their upcoming 25th wedding anniversary.

The couple, who lived in Connecticut, were longtime fans of the Connecticut-based jam band Goose. The concert was part of the band’s summer tour and marked their second night performing at Madison Square Garden.

In a statement, Goose expressed their heartbreak over the incident. “We are deeply saddened and heartbroken to learn of the tragic event that occurred at tonight’s show,” the band said. “We extend our deepest sympathies to everyone affected. Thank you to the emergency personnel and venue staff who stepped in with care and support.”

Kueker’s employer, Smartcon, also released a statement mourning his loss. “Paul meant the world to everyone at Smartcon,” said William Brown, the company’s general manager. “He was an extraordinary person and a valued member of our team, and the loss is felt deeply across our entire company. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

The tragedy has left Kueker’s family, friends, and colleagues in shock. As a devoted husband and father, he was remembered not only for his professional achievements in the green-energy sector but also for the love and care he showed to those around him. His mother’s emotional description of him as someone who always put family first has resonated deeply with those who knew him.

This is not the first fatal fall at Madison Square Garden in recent years. In 2023, 61-year-old Ernest Vogliano died after falling from an escalator railing following a New York Rangers game. The venue, one of the most famous arenas in the world, has now been the site of two high-profile fatal incidents within a short period.

As the investigation into Paul Kueker’s death continues, the focus for many remains on the profound loss felt by his wife, children, mother, and extended family. What was meant to be a joyful celebration of love and music ended in sudden tragedy, leaving those closest to him to grieve the husband, father, and son they described as one of the kindest people they knew.

The music community and Kueker’s colleagues have joined his family in mourning, remembering a man who lived a full life centered around love for his family and a pᴀssion for live music.