Former NHL forward and Nottingham Panthers player, Adam Johnson, has tragically passed away following a “freak accident” during a match in Britain’s top hockey league. The incident occurred during a Challenge Cup game against the Sheffield Steelers, when Johnson suffered a serious cut to the neck from a skate during an on-ice collision.
The severity of the injury prompted the game to be stopped in the 34th minute, and fans were asked to leave the stadium due to a “major medical emergency.” Sadly, Johnson was pronounced dead at the hospital, as confirmed by the South Yorkshire Police, who are currently conducting an investigation into the incident.
The Nottingham Panthers released a statement expressing their devastation over Johnson’s death, and paid tribute to him as both a player and teammate. The Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) has also responded to the tragedy by rescheduling all games scheduled for October 29, including the Panthers’ upcoming game against the Glasgow Clan on October 31.
Johnson had recently joined the Panthers this summer to play in the EIHL, following his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL. Although severe neck injuries are rare in hockey, there have been previous cases involving severed jugular veins or sliced carotid arteries.
Tributes have poured in from the hockey community, with condolences coming from the Pittsburgh Penguins, the NHL, and even Johnson’s former school and hometown. The Nottingham Panthers, the EIHL, and the Sheffield Steelers have also expressed their sorrow over Johnson’s untimely passing.
As the investigation continues, the exact cause of this “freak accident” remains unknown. The hockey community remains in shock and mourns the loss of a talented player and beloved person.
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