The Pittsburgh Penguins confirmed Thursday that Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, the father of forward Andrei Kuzmenko, died after a bear attacked him while he was on a fishing trip in the Tuva region of southern Siberia. Kuzmenko was part of a seven‑person group that had set up on the banks of the Krasnaya River, a remote spot surrounded by dense forest.
According to The Athletic, a member of the party managed to call for help using a satellite phone, but the rugged terrain delayed rescue efforts. It took four hours for responders to locate Kuzmenko, after which he was airlifted to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Penguins organization responds
Pittsburgh Penguins president and general manager Kyle Dubas released a statement expressing the organization’s sorrow. “The Pittsburgh Penguins organization was deeply saddened this morning to learn of the passing of Andrei Kuzmenko’s father, Alexander,” Dubas said. “Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with the Kuzmenko family and their loved ones as they grieve the loss of Alexander. We ask that the privacy of Andrei and the Kuzmenko family be respected at this time.”
Dubas also noted that Andrei had planned to practice with the team that morning before traveling to Moscow. “Andrei chose to be surrounded by his teammates and practice with the team this morning before returning to Moscow to be with his family this afternoon,” Dubas added. “Andrei and the Kuzmenko family have the full support of the Penguins organization during this time.”
Andrei Kuzmenko’s career
The younger Kuzmenko, 30, signed a one‑year, $5 million contract with Pittsburgh during the 2025‑26 offseason. He is entering his fourth NHL season and his first with the Penguins after stints with the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings. The Penguins open their season on Wednesday against the Philadelphia Flyers.
While the tragedy occurred far from home, the loss resonates with the hockey community and underscores the close‑knit nature of families tied to professional sports. The Penguins organization has pledged to stand by Andrei Kuzmenko as he navigates this personal hardship while preparing for the upcoming season.
Background on the incident
Bear encounters are a known risk in the remote regions of Siberia, and local authorities have restricted access to certain areas to protect both residents and wildlife. The incident highlights the dangers that can arise when venturing into such wilderness areas, even for experienced outdoorsmen.
Our thoughts remain with the Kuzmenko family during this difficult time, and we will continue to follow any further updates from the Penguins organization.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
