Penguins Player's Father Killed In Bear Attack

PITTSBURGH, PA — The father of Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko has died after being attacked by a bear while on a fishing trip in a remote part of Siberia.

The death of Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was reported Thursday by multiple media outlets in Russia, including Sports24. The Penguins this morning issued a statement on the fatal incident.

"The Pittsburgh Penguins organization was deeply saddened this morning to learn of the passing of Andrei Kuzmenko's father, Alexander," Penguins President of Hockey Operations Kyle Dubas said.

"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. Andrei and the Kuzmenko family have the full support of the Penguins organization at this time."

According to Russian reports, Alexander Kuzmenko was with six companions when the attack occurred. They managed to drive away the bear before moving him to a a nearby settlement. Kuzmenko then was airlifted to a hospital but was unable to be saved.

According to NHL.com, Andrei Kuzmenko signed a $1 year, $5 million contract with the Penguins. He has 25 points in 52 games with the Los Angeles Kings before requiring surgery in February for a knee injury.

Entering his fifth NHL season, he has 182 points (85 goals, 97 assists) in 271 regular-season games for the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Philadelphia Flyers and the Kings, and six points (three goals, three assists) in seven Stanley Cup playoff games.