Police Probe Death of US Ice Hockey Player Adam Johnson in Bizarre Incident
American ice hockey player Adam Johnson tragically passed away during a Nottingham Panthers game in England Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident
Police are conducting an investigation into the untimely passing of American ice hockey player Adam Johnson. Johnson tragically met his demise on Saturday during a game in England while playing for the Nottingham Panthers. The incident occurred during the second period of the Panthers' match against the Sheffield Steelers, where Johnson sustained a severe injury following a collision with a player from the opposing team. The Utilita Arena in Sheffield was promptly evacuated and the game was halted in response. On Sunday, the Panthers officially announced Johnson's passing, attributing it to a "freak accident" that transpired during the game. Johnson was 29 years old at the time of his death.
South Yorkshire Police announced on Monday that an investigation is underway regarding the incident.
According to a statement, authorities received a call at 8.25pm on Saturday, October 28, regarding a player who suffered severe injuries during a match between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers at Sheffield's Utilita Arena.
Officers, along with other emergency services, responded to the scene, where a man in his 20s was transported to the hospital with severe injuries. Unfortunately, he was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Our officers are currently present at the scene, conducting inquiries, while our investigation into the incident's circumstances continues.
The investigation will be aided by Sheffield City Council, as stated by Councilor Joe Otten, Chair of the Waste and Street Scene Policy Committee, who expressed condolences to Adams' family, friends, and teammates during this unfortunate and challenging period.
Our Health and Safety team is partnering with South Yorkshire Police in their investigation and will provide assistance as required.
Floral tributes have been placed outside the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, the Panthers' home ground, with condolences pouring in from across the globe.
Johnson's fiance, Ryan Wolfe, shared on her Instagram story: "You were my beloved cherub. You'll be deeply missed and forever cherished."
Prior to their Monday game against the Anaheim Ducks, Johnson's ex-team, the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL, also honored him with a heartfelt tribute.
Fans at the PPG Paints Arena were invited to stand and cheer while players from both teams gathered at the center ice circle before the game in memory of Johnson.
The Pittsburgh Penguins and Anaheim Ducks surround center ice before Monday's fixture.
Gene J. Puskar/AP
All players paid tribute to Johnson by wearing special AJ 47 decals on their helmets.
"He was an exceptional young man and a talented player," expressed head coach Mike Sullivan. "His speed on the ice was remarkable. It was an honor to have coached him. There are no words to adequately describe the depth of my emotions regarding this devastating incident. It is truly an unimaginable tragedy."
The English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA), which governs ice hockey in England and Wales, issued a statement on Monday outlining its dedication to enhancing player safety following Johnson's tragic death. In the near future, the EIHA strongly advises that all players in English Ice Hockey wear a neck guard/protector during on-ice activities. As of December 31, the use of neck guards will be mandatory, as stated in the announcement. The EIHA clarified that the delay in immediate enforcement is due to anticipated supply challenges.
The EIHA stated that the loss of any player's life during sport is unacceptable. They expressed their responsibility to not only prevent such tragic accidents from happening again but also to proactively address other potential incidents in the future.
Additionally, the EIHA assured that a comprehensive evaluation of player safety equipment, including helmets, mouthguards, gumshields, and facial protection, would be conducted. They pledged to offer clear guidance to their members on how to continuously enhance player safety and fulfill their responsibilities in this area.
The Panthers and the Steelers both confirmed on Monday that their Elite Ice Hockey League fixtures scheduled for this week have been suspended.
Born in Hibbing, Minnesota, Johnson began his professional career in the American Hockey League. He later advanced to the NHL with the Penguins, playing in 13 games over two seasons and scoring four points.
Johnson also played in Sweden and Germany before joining the Panthers for the 2023-24 season.
