Alexander Kuzmenko, the father of Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko, died after a bear attacked his group during a fishing trip in southern Siberia, Russia. Multiple Russian media outlets, including REN TV, reported that Kuzmenko was part of a seven‑person party when the animal emerged from a nearby forest and assaulted him.
Details of the incident
According to the reports, the party used a satellite phone to call for help. Rescue personnel transported the injured man for four hours along a river before an ambulance could reach the scene. He was then airlifted to a regional hospital, where he was pronounced dead later that day.
REN TV noted that the area where the attack occurred had previously been restricted because of a high level of bear activity. The network cited official statistics indicating that 15 people have been killed by bear attacks in Russia this year.
Penguins organization response
The Pittsburgh Penguins issued a statement expressing deep sorrow for the loss. “The organization was deeply saddened this morning to learn of the passing of Andrei Kuzmenko’s father, Alexander. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the Kuzmenko family as they grieve,” the statement read. The team asked fans and media to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
Andrei Kuzmenko chose to stay with his teammates for practice that morning before traveling back to Moscow to be with his family later in the day. The organization affirmed that the player and his family have the full support of the Penguins.
Impact on the team
While the tragedy is a personal loss for Kuzmenko, the Penguins will continue their season schedule. The team has not indicated any changes to upcoming games or travel plans. Teammates and coaches are expected to offer support to Kuzmenko as he copes with the loss.
Broader context
Bear attacks, though rare, remain a danger in remote regions of Russia where wildlife encounters are more common. Authorities often issue warnings and restrict access to areas with known high bear activity, but incidents still occur, as highlighted by the recent fatalities reported this year.
For fans of the Penguins and the broader hockey community, the focus now turns to offering compassion and respecting the privacy of the Kuzmenko family while the team moves forward on the ice.
Original reporting: KOCO Sports (Oklahoma City) — read the source article.
