Tragedy: Olympic Skater Denis Ten Murdered at 25

Olympic figure skater Denis Ten has died at the age of 25.

According to Russian news agency TASS, Ten died at a hospital after losing three liters of blood in a knife attack in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The news outlet reported that Ten was found unconscious by a passerby, who called an ambulance. Despite efforts to save him, he died hours later.

Kazakhstan police revealed to Tengrinews.kz, “Denis Yurevich Ten spotted two unknown men who tried to steal mirrors from his car. In a brawl which took place at the scene Ten was wounded with a knife. The incident is being investigated by police, all members of Almaty's department of internal affairs are involved in the operation aimed at identifying and detaining the criminals.”

The International Skating Union confirmed the sad news, tweeting, “Our heartfelt condolences go out to Denis' family, friends and fans across the world.”

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach said in a statement, “Denis Ten was a great athlete and a great ambassador for his sport. A warm personality and a charming man. Such a tragedy to lose him at such a young age.”

After hearing the tragic news, fellow figure skater Adam Rippon tweeted, “My skating friend, @Tenis_Den, passed away today. He was so kind to everyone and a huge inspiration to me and so many other people. Murdered in the streets of Kazakhstan. Denis, thank you for showing us how to be a champion. Your time with us was way too short. Love you forever.”

Johnny Weir added, “Completely devastated by the passing of Denis Ten. He was as bright and kind as he was talented. This is such an incredible loss and tragedy. My heart is with his family and loved ones.”

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