Reports: Kuzmenko’s Father Killed in Siberia Bear Attack

Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, a hockey coach and father of Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko, died in a Kyzyl hospital after a bear attacked him on a fishing trip on the Bolshoy Yenisei River in Siberia's Tuva Republic on Sept. 23, 2026. REN TV reported a bear suddenly emerged from the forest, attacked him and bit him on the head. Companions drove the animal away, gave first aid and called for help. He had severe head and face injuries, was moved to a settlement, airlifted to hospital and died there. Penguins GM Kyle Dubas said the team was deeply saddened, offered sympathies, asked for privacy, and said Andrei practiced with teammates Thursday morning before leaving for Moscow that afternoon. REN TV reported the area had access restrictions due to increased bear activity linked to poor natural food supply, with at least 15 fatal bear attacks in the region this year. Andrei signed a one-year, $5 million deal with Pittsburgh this offseason after playing for the Canucks, Flames, Flyers and Kings. Outlets differed on Andrei's age (28 or 30). One report said he missed Thursday practice; the Penguins said he took part before departing. It is unclear when he returns to the lineup.