The International Skating Union (ISU) has expressed condolences to the family of slain skater Denis Ten. The 2014 Olympic bronze medalist was stabbed by two unknown criminals who attempted to steal mirrors from his car.
“The ISU is deeply saddened by the news from media in Kazakhstan announcing the passing of Figure Skater Denis Ten. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Denis' family, friends and fans across the world,” the skating governing body said in a statement.
The incident took place in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on Thursday. Despite all the resuscitation procedures provided by doctors the skater passed away in Almaty’s Central Clinical Hospital.
READ MORE: Olympic figure skater Ten dies after knife attack in Kazakhstan
"It’s difficult to comment on the news. I saw his performance in Sochi where I supported him as my former compatriot. I was born in Kazakhstan,” said former Russia speed skater Alexander Kibalko who is also an ISU Technical Committee member, TASS reported.
“This is a big shock and a huge loss for sport and for entire skating family. I wish Kazakh law enforcement officials would find those bastards. I express condolences to Kazakhstan and to Denis’s family in particular.”