Thread: Nottingham hockey player Adam Johnson dies after ‘freak injury’

Tributes have been paid to a 29-year-old professional ice hockey player who died after a “freak accident” during a Challenge Cup match between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers on Saturday night.


Adam Johnson, originally from Minnesota in the US, died after appearing to suffer a catastrophic cut to his neck from a blade during the match at Sheffield arena.


Witnesses described the accident as horrific leaving many fans in tears as the match was abandoned. Johnson’s team, Nottingham Panthers, confirmed his death on Sunday morning.


In a statement the team said: “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.”


The club described Johnson, “our number 47”, as “not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him”.


Witnesses described the incident which led to Johnson’s death as a freak clash. Christian Bennett, a Guardian journalist who was at the match, said: “Two players blindsided each other, just bumped into each other.