Man has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the death of ice hockey star Adam Johnson, who was killed when opponent Matt Petgrave’s skate slit his throat during the match
A man has been arrested for the manslaughter of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson following his death last month.
The 29-year-old American ice hockey star died after a skate slit his throat during a collision during a match against Sheffield Steelers on October 28.
Around 8,000 fans watched in horror as attempts were made to save Johnson’s life as he lay bleeding on the ice at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena, protected by players after the collision with Steelers star Matt Petgrave, before later dying in hospital died from his injuries.
An inquest into Johnson’s death was opened last week, before being adjourned until January 2024.
South Yorkshire Police have released a statement confirming the man remains in police custody following his arrest on Tuesday.
A man has been arrested on manslaughter charges following the death of Adam Johnson
The 29-year-old (pictured with his partner Ryan Wolfe) died from a fatal neck injury after an on-ice collision
Matt Petgrave, pictured playing for the Utica Comets, was involved in an on-ice collision with Johnson during the Sheffield game last month
A statement said: ‘Detectives today (Tuesday 14 November) arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter. He currently remains in police custody.
‘On Saturday 28th October, Adam, aged 29, was seriously injured during a match between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers and sadly died later in hospital. A post-mortem examination revealed that he died as a result of a fatal neck injury.”
Chief Inspector Becs Horsfall added that police had carried out ‘extensive investigations’ in the aftermath of the tragedy.
“Our investigation began immediately after this tragedy and we have since conducted extensive research to piece together the events that led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances.
‘We have spoken to highly specialist experts in their fields to help us with our investigations and continue to work closely with Sheffield City Council’s health and safety department, who are supporting our ongoing investigation.
“Adam’s death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to hockey fans around the world.
“We know that these communities expect us to treat this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other investigation and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation that could hinder this process.
Johnson (ringed), seen seconds before the incident at the Nutita Arena in Sheffield on October 28
The collision occurred during a game between the Panthers and the Steelers in front of approximately 8,000 fans
Sheffield Steelers returned to action for the first time since the incident on Sunday and fans showed their support for both Johnson and Petgrave
The Minnesota-born former NHL star was buried last week in his hometown of Hibbing
“Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this devastating incident as investigations continue.”
The man in question cannot be named at this time.
Last weekend, hockey fans showed their support for Johnson and Petgrave during the Sheffield Steelers’ first game since the incident.
In tribute to the Panthers player, more than 8,000 fans observed a moment of silence and rapturous minutes of applause as players tapped their sticks on the ice ahead of the Steelers’ 2-1 win against Coventry Blaze on Sunday.
Petgrave was not included in the Steelers roster to play that night, but before the game his photo appeared on the big screen in the arena, with many fans standing to applaud the defenseman’s image.
Fans, players and staff also gathered to pay floral tributes and sign a book of condolence for Johnson’s family at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham.
On Saturday the club will organize an ‘Adam Johnson Memorial Match’ against Manchester Storm.
Following the opening of the inquest, coroner Tanyka Rawden called for neck protectors to be made mandatory across sport.
“In due course the inquest will consider whether the use of a neck gaiter or protector could have prevented Mr Johnson’s death,” Rawden said.
Hundreds of flower arrangements have been left at Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham in recent days
Fans gathered to sign a book of condolence for Johnson’s family in the wake of the tragedy
The club will play an ‘Adam Johnson Memorial Match’ against Manchester Storm on Saturday
‘However, at this stage of my investigation I am sufficiently concerned that deaths may occur in the future if neck gaiters or protectors are not worn.
“In my opinion, action must be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you have the power to take such action.”
Governing body EIHA previously said neck protectors will be made mandatory from 2024, but that decision will not affect the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), which is not under its control.
The EIHL said it will not mandate the use of neck guards but will “strongly encourage” players and officials to wear them following Johnson’s death.