NHL free agent Alex Galchenyuk has apologized for the incident in which he was accused of threatening police officers during an arrest for hit-and-run.
Galchenyuk, 29, was released by the Coyotes days after signing with the team after the incident.
The 11-year NHL veteran posted an apology note on Tuesday addressed to Coyotes leadership, teammates and fans.
“My behavior last week was deeply offensive, uncalled for, horrendous, embarrassing, disrespectful and just plain awful,” the letter began.
“I let you all down and I am truly sorry. While this behavior after drinking alcohol is not representative of who I am, I do have to take responsibility for it. My actions have cost me my chance to do what I love, play professional hockey.”
Earlier this month, a white BMW driven by Galchenyuk was allegedly observed hitting a curb and striking a parked SUV, after which the hockey player apparently got out of the car and lay on the ground.
At that point, his father was said to have helped Galchenyuk up, put him in the passenger seat and drove away.
Both men were said to be heavily impaired by police, who later pulled the car over.
“I’m gonna chop you and your daughter,” Galchenyuk allegedly told Scottsdale police officers, making allusions to mob connections in Russia where he grew up. “One phone call and you’re all dead, your whole family, your whole bloodline is dead.”
Later, Galchenyuk said he was joking.
He also was accused of calling one of the officers, an African-American, a racial slur.
In his apology letter, Galchenyuk said he was checking himself into the league’s treatment program.
“I was very much looking forward to starting my life with my wife here in Arizona, playing alongside some of the best in the NHL and entertaining the incredible fan base the Coyotes have built here,” the letter continued.
“By checking myself into the NHL / NHLPA Assistance Program, I hope to get the help I need to ensure I never make a mistake like this again.
“Again, I am sorry I let you down and I hope over time and with hard work, I can show all of you I am a better person than this horrendous moment.”
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