Police said Monday that they are investigating the death of former Pittsburgh Penguins forward Adam Johnson, 29, who died during an Elite Ice Hockey League game on Saturday.
Reports and graphic video indicate Johnson collided with another player during a game in England and suffered a cut to the neck from a skate, NHL.com reported.
The South Yorkshire Police, who were called to the scene on Saturday, are investigating the incident.
“Our officers remain at the scene carrying out inquiries and our investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing,” a statement said, according to Fox News. “We would encourage the public to avoid speculation regarding the incident while we continue our inquiries.”
Johnson’s team, the Nottingham Panthers, have called the fatal collision a “freak accident.”
“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 team said in a statement posted Sunday. “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, management and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing,” the Panthers added. “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 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. pic.twitter.com/lhSOkDu03Q
— The Nottingham Panthers (@PanthersIHC) October 29, 2023
The Elite Ice Hockey League, likewise, called the incident a “freak accident.”
“The Elite Ice Hockey League is heartbroken to confirm that Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson sadly passed away following a freak accident in Saturday’s game between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers,” the league said, adding that further games over the weekend would be postponed.
The Elite Ice Hockey League is heartbroken to confirm that Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson sadly passed away following a freak accident in Saturday’s game between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers. pic.twitter.com/9MtTzvmojM
— Elite Ice Hockey League | #EIHL (@officialEIHL) October 29, 2023
“My sweet angel,” Wolf wrote in the post honoring Johnson via Instagram. “I’ll miss you forever and love you always.”
The Pittsburgh Penguins also issued a post about Johnson’s passing.
“The Pittsburgh Penguins join the entire hockey world in mourning Adam Johnson, whose life tragically ended far too soon,” the team said Sunday. “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 part of the Penguins family.”
“It was our honor to watch him fulfill his dream of playing in the National Hockey League,” the Penguins added.