Oct 13 2008
Alexei Cherepanov Passed Away
The New York Rangers have confirmed that Alexei Cherepanov did indeed pass away today. It is also confirmed that Alexei did collapse while sitting on the bench in the 3rd quarter of the game. This is still a breaking story that all the information has yet to be fully released. As of now the suspicion is that something happened while on the ice that caused the collapse.
There are also two issues that might have contributed to the death as well. The first is that the ambulance that is normally at the game had already left. It is being reported that it took the ambulance between 20 and 30 minutes to return. The second issue is that the heart fibulator that are kept there might have been up to regulation. All details are still a little sketchy as they will know more once all footage is reviewed.
As for Cherepanov, he was just 19 years old.
The Cherepanov and Bourdon accidents are tragic, for their families and the NHL. The question is whether these accidents can be prevented in the future. Maybe better testing on the NHL’s part for the Cherepanov situation and educating the players (youngsters) on dangerous activities such as motorcycle etc… Just seems like more should/can be done to prevent tragedies like these from occuring in the future…. and it is ridiculous how the Rangers are seeking another pick to replace Cherepanov. My thoughts. http://jib-sports-culture.blogspot.com/2008/11/tragedy-for-promising-rookies.html