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A UK ice hockey club released a statement following the death of their player Adam Johnson.
The Nottingham Panthers star died following a ‘freak accident’ during a game last night (28 October).
Johnson, 29, was playing for his team against the Sheffield Steelers at the Utilita Arena.
But while more than 8,000 fans watched on in Sheffield, the American hockey player was slashed in the neck.
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According to witnesses, players from both the Sheffield and Nottingham teams quickly formed a ring around Johnson after he suffered the fatal injury.
The derby game was paused in the 35th minute as medics rushed in to tend to the player.
Spectators were quickly asked to leave the stadium following the ‘major medical emergency’.
The American was rushed to Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital, but sadly died as a result of the accident.
Nottingham Panthers said in a statement: “The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.
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“Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing. Our thoughts are also with the fans and staff of both clubs, especially those who attended or were following the game, who will be devastated following today's news.
"The Panthers would like to thank everyone who rushed to support Adam last night in the most testing of circumstances.
"Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.
"We ask that the privacy of Adam's family and friends, and everyone at the club is respected at this difficult time as we all seek to come to terms with out grief.
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"Rest in peace Adam."
As announced by the Elite Ice Hockey League, all games today are postponed following the tragedy.
Nottingham Panthers also shared their home game scheduled for 31 October against Glasgow Clan has also been postponed.
The team added: “We ask for everyone’s understanding and patience regarding this news and ask that fans refrain from emailing or contacting the club as our staff come to terms with today’s traffic news.”
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Elite Ice Hockey League shared in a statement: “The Elite Ice Hockey League is heartbroken to confirm that Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson sadly passed away following a freak accident in Saturday’s game between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers.
“The thoughts and condolences of everyone connected with the EIHL are with Adam's family, friends and team mates at this incredibly sad and difficult time. "We would also ask everyone to respect the privacy of Adam’s family at this time.”
Johnson joined the team this summer after previously playing for the likes of the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Ontario Reign and Germany’s Augsburger Panther.
Jess Battison