Police investigating death of ice hockey player who was killed in horrific accident
Police are investigating the death of an ice hockey player who was fatally injured on Saturday night (28 October).
Adam Johnson died following the ‘freak accident’ during a match in Sheffield.
The Nottingham Panthers star was playing in the derby game against Sheffield Steelers at the Utlita Arena.
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However, it was paused in the 35th minute as medics rushed onto the ice to tend to the player.
The 29-year-old American was accidentally slashed in the neck by an opposing player, with over 8,000 fans watching from the side-lines.
Spectators were asked to leave the arena following the ‘major medical emergency’.
Witnesses say his fiancée ran onto the ice and began praying for him as players from both teams formed a ring around Johnson.
In a statement after this fatal tragedy, Nottingham Panthers said: “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. 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.
"Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing."
An investigation into Johnson’s death is ongoing and South Yorkshire police said in its most recent statement: “We were called at 8.25pm on Saturday 28 October to reports that a player had been seriously injured during a Sheffield Steelers versus Nottingham Panthers game at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
“Officers attended the scene alongside other emergency services and one man, aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Sadly, he was later pronounced deceased at hospital.
“Our officers remain at the scene carrying out enquiries and our investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing.
“We would encourage the public to avoid speculation regarding the incident while we continue our enquiries.”
Following Johnson’s fatal accident, his fiancée Ryan Wolfe paid tribute on Instagram with a photo of the pair, writing: “My sweet, sweet angel.
“I'll miss you forever and love you always."
Tributes and flowers have also been left for the ice hockey star outside the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham including shirts bearing Johnson’s number 47.
Assistant coach Kevin Moore said the team was ‘really grateful for all the love and support’ they had received.
LADbible has contacted South Yorkshire police for further comment.
Jess Battison