Report says Kane subject of rape investigation

Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane is the subject of a rape investigation by police in the Buffalo suburb of Hamburg, according to The Buffalo News. The report said a woman accused Kane of sexual assault in an incident over the last weekend.

Asked if he could comment on the nature of the investigation, Hamburg police chief Gregory Wickett told USA TODAY Sports, “No, not at all. I cannot even confirm there is an investigation.”

The News cited two unnamed law enforcement sources who said the woman went to a hospital where a rape kit was performed. Kane, 26, is a Buffalo native who lives in Hamburg during the offseason.

“We are aware of a police investigation and are following developments,” Frank Brown, the NHL’s group vice president of media relations, told USA TODAY Sports.

“We are aware of the matter and are in the process of gathering information,” the Blackhawks said in a statement. “It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”

Pat Brisson, Kane’s agent, issued a statement that said much the same.

In June, Kane helped lead the Blackhawks to their third Stanley Cup championship in the past six seasons. He was scheduled to have his day with the Stanley Cup in the Buffalo region this weekend.

The Chicago Tribune reported that unnamed neighbors of Kane said that plainclothes police entered his home on Lake Erie on Sunday night and were seen taking pictures.

The Blackhawks selected Kane as the No. 1 overall draft choice in 2007. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2013. He will begin the first year of an eight-year, $84 million contract this season.