Man Utd fan group founder ‘killed in Ukraine amid Russian invasion with wife and child shot while trying to flee Kyiv’
A MANCHESTER UNITED fan group founder has allegedly been tragically killed by Russian soldiers in Ukraine.
Oleksandr Kukin created Kyiv Reds in Ukraine's capital back in 2002.
However, reports are claiming that he has sadly been caught up in the conflict in his homeland.
Kukin was believed to be trying to help his family flee the city when the tragedy struck.
His car came under artillery fire, which resulted in his death.
His wife Alina and daughter also both suffered injuries and are have been operated on in hospital.
READ MORE STORIES
The Kyiv Reds page wrote: “Oleksandr Kukin, one of the founders of the Kyiv Reds passed away tragically on the 3rd March 2022.
“Back in 2002, twenty years ago, Oleksandr started Manchester United supporters movement in Kyiv.
“Later he refocused on his family and could not dedicate all his time to our supporters club, but has often frequently joined us at Bestia Pub to enjoy the Red Devils play.
“This photo shows Oleksandr's sincerest emotions during the War of Roses derby, 20 February 2021.
Most read in Football
“Two weeks ago he tried to evacuate his family from the territory temporarily occupied by Russian armed forces, their car was shot by invaders.
“Oleksandr's wife and daughter have both gone through surgery and are now hospitalised, and we regret to say Oleksandr could not make it through.
“During his funeral, family placed a band with Manchester United logo in his coffin, they all knew how much he loved our club. As the famous United chant goes: 'Going on up to the spirit in the sky, it's where I'm gonna go when I die, when I die and they lay me to rest, I'm gonna go on the p*** with Georgie Best...' You will always be remembered, my friend!”
United also paid tribute to his passing as well, with a statement reading: “Manchester United is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Aleksander Kukin, one of the founding members of the Kyiv Reds supporters' club.
“A statement by the Kyiv Reds on Monday confirmed that the much-admired United fan had been killed after his car was shot at by opposition forces.
“His wife and daughter survived the tragedy, and have since undergone operations in hospital. We send our heartfelt condolences for their loss and best wishes for their recovery, as they attempt to deal with these awful events.
“The club is exploring a number of ways in which it can offer its support to both Aleksander's family and the Kyiv Reds in due course.”