Penguins Forward Andrei Kuzmenko Leaves Team After Father Killed in Russian Bear Attack

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko has taken leave from the team following the death of his father, Alexander Kuzmenko, in a bear attack. The incident occurred during a fishing trip in Russia's Siberian republic of Tuva.

Kyle Dubas, Penguins President of Hockey Operations, confirmed the news, stating that Andrei chose to practice with his teammates on Wednesday morning before returning to Moscow to be with his family. "Andrei and the Kuzmenko family have the full support of the Penguins organization at this time," Dubas said. He added that Kuzmenko has been encouraged to take as much time as he needs.

According to reports, Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was attacked by a bear that emerged from a nearby forest. Although initially reported that friends rescued him and an ambulance was called, his condition worsened, and he later died. Alexander Kuzmenko was a known coach at Moscow's White Bears hockey school.

This is not an isolated incident in Russia. Reports indicate that at least 15 individuals have lost their lives in Siberia due to bear attacks in 2026, with forest fires and food shortages potentially exacerbating the situation. A recent tally noted at least six deaths in one month. Russia's brown bear population is estimated to be around 307,000, and authorities have reportedly killed over 530 aggressive bears.

Tuva, located near China's northwest border, is a popular fishing destination known for its large Siberian taimen and trout. Russian President Vladimir Putin was famously photographed shirtless while fishing along the Yenisei River in 2007.

Andrei Kuzmenko, a native of Yakutsk, Siberia, joined the Penguins on a one-year, $5 million contract on July 1. He previously played for the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Philadelphia Flyers, and Los Angeles Kings. His most productive season was in 2022-23 with Vancouver, where he recorded 39 goals and 35 assists.