A man has been arrested for the manslaughter of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson following his tragic death last month.
The 29-year-old American ice hockey star was reportedly killed after a skate slit his throat during a collision against the Sheffield Steelers on October 28, resulting in a fatal neck injury.
About 8,000 fans watched in horror as attempts were made to save Johnson’s life as he lay bleeding on the ice at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, shielded by fellow players, before later succumbing to his injuries in hospital.
A coroner’s 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 a collision on the ice
The Minnesota-born former NHL star was buried last week in his hometown of Hibbing
A statement released on Tuesday said: “Detectives have arrested a man today (Tuesday 14 November) on suspicion of manslaughter.” He currently remains in police custody.
“On Saturday October 28th, 29-year-old Adam was seriously injured during a game between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers and was sadly later pronounced dead in hospital. An autopsy confirmed he died as a result of a fatal neck injury.”
In a statement to the Yorkshire Post, Detective Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall said police had carried out an “extensive investigation” following the tragedy.
“Our investigation was launched immediately following this tragedy and we have since been conducting extensive investigations to piece together the events that led to Adam’s death in these unprecedented circumstances.”
“We have spoken to highly specialized experts in their field to support our investigations and continue to work closely with Sheffield City Council’s Health and Safety Department who are supporting our ongoing investigations.”
“Adam’s death has sent shockwaves across many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to hockey fans around the world. “We know these communities expect us to conduct this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as everyone others, and call on the public to refrain from comments or speculation that could hinder this process.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating incident as the investigation continues.”
Police did not release the name of the man in question.
On 5 November, Nottingham Forest paid a touching tribute to the player in the game against Aston Villa, giving a minute’s applause in the 47th minute at the Forest Ground.
Nottingham Forest gave the player a minute’s applause during the Premier League game against Aston Villa
Hundreds of floral tributes have been left at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham in recent days
Following the tragedy, fans gathered to sign a book of condolence for Johnson’s family
When the accident occurred, around 8,000 spectators were present to watch the Panthers v Sheffield Steelers game
The number was chosen to match the jersey Johnson wore for the Panthers, and in the same minute, Forest’s Orel Mangala scored a goal as all four fans in the stands stood to pay homage to Johnson.
The Minnesota-born star, who previously played in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins, was also remembered the same day at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, home of the Panthers.
Fans, players and staff gathered to pay floral tributes and sign a book of condolence for Johnson’s family.
The club will host an Adam Johnson Memorial Match against Manchester Storm on Saturday.
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