“I tried to save a friend”: skaters of the Elena Berezhnaya Ice Theater fell through the ice in St. Petersburg 23.03.2023, 18:30

The participants in the incident, which almost turned into a tragedy, were the wards of Olympic champion Elena Berezhnaya. 19-year-old figure skater Ivan Belkov and 26-year-old choreographer Alexander Grishin spent an unfortunate evening with friends. They were returning home after a party when they decided to test the ice at house number 113 on the embankment of the Fontanka River in St. Petersburg.

We tried the ice with our feet, it seemed strong to the young people, and they began to skate, even without skates. However, in the middle of a spontaneous performance, the ice could not support their weight and cracked, both ending up in icy water. Fortunately, the theatergoers managed to catch the ice floes and did not go to the bottom.

Alexander managed to get out of the water on his own and rushed for help. Passersby called the emergency services. One of the motorists helped Ivan pull out with a tow rope. Meanwhile, the ambulance and the police arrived at the scene. The victims were given first aid and were urgently taken to the Mariinsky Hospital. According to the Shot Telegram channel, doctors diagnosed them with severe hypothermia and alcohol intoxication.

At this moment, both conquerors of the March ice are discharged in a satisfactory condition. The dance teacher assured that he has no plans to go on the ice. Realizing he was in danger, he hurried after the skater.

“I feel good, even good.” Officers provided first aid. I tried to save my friend who decided to run on the ice. I have already been released from the hospital, everything seems to be fine with my boyfriend,” 78.ru quotes the man as saying.

Alexander thanked bystanders, doctors and police officers for quick help. The press service of the Ice Theater of Elena Berezhnaya assured that the guys drank only a can of beer for two. Representatives of the famous athlete reminded that no one is immune to unreasonable actions.

Recall that on the night of March 20, the leader of the Cream Soda group, Dmitry Svirgunov, drowned in the Volga River in the Yaroslavl region. He also set out on the weak March ice with the company of his relatives. The musician’s younger brother Roman and friend George are still missing. Only the girl Dmitry Valeria was able to survive the tragedy.