ICE HOCKEY
Tragedy on ice: former NHL player dies after neck cut by skate
Former NHL player Adam Johnson died during a hockey game after a rare accident that saw him caught by an opponent’s blade.
Adam Johnson, aged 29, tragically succumbed to an almost inexplicable accident during the Challenge Cup match that pitted his team, the Nottingham Panthers, against the Sheffield Steelers. Despite receiving immediate medical assistance, the British player lost his life due to a neck laceration inflicted by an opponent’s skate blade during the second half of the match at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
Panthers devastated by Johnson death
The organisation issued the following statement:
‘The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night.
‘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.
‘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 our grief.
‘Rest in peace Adam.’
Pittsburg Penguins message after former player dies
When the incident happened, the referees halted the game and requested that the fans vacate the premises, citing what the Panthers described as a “major medical emergency.” The former NHL player (Pittsburgh Penguins) was promptly transported to the North City General Hospital in England, but despite the efforts of medical professionals, his life could not be saved.
His former team issued a statement:
The Pittsburgh Penguins join the entire hockey world in mourning the loss of Adam Johnson, whose life tragically ended far too soon.
‘We offer our deepest condolences to Adam’s family and friends, as well as all of Adam’s past and present teammates and coaches. Adam will always be a part of the Penguins family. It was our honor to watch him fulfill his dream of playing in the National Hockey League.’
RIP Adam.