Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson dies after neck cut by skate

A picture of Adam Johnson in action for Nottingham Panthers
Adam Johnson died aged 29 (Picture: Panthers Images)

Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson has died after his neck was cut by a skate during a game.

The Panthers were playing Sheffield Steelers in a Challenge Cup clash at the Utilita Arena on Saturday (October 28) night when what the Panthers describe as a ‘freak accident’ happened.

The game was stopped in the 35th minute when the 29-year-old American received treatment on the ice.

The match was then abandoned.

But Nottingham Panthers confirmed that Adam had died in a statement on Sunday (October 29) morning, saying the club is ‘truly devastated’.

The statement said: “The Panthers 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 have 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.”