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Former NHL player Adam Johnson, who played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, tragically died at age 29 following a “freak accident” on the ice during a game between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers at Utilita Arena in the United Kingdom.
Johnson was involved in a collision and is believed to have taken a skate blade to his throat.
The game was abandoned and fans were evacuated from the arena.
Around 8,000 fans witnessed the horrific incident.
Johnson’s aunt posted about his passing on social media, sharing photos with the former hockey player and the caption, “I lost half of my heart today. Love you always Munch.”
Adam Johnson has passed away, according to his aunt (supposedly) on Facebook.
RIP 💔
You will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/u2BdxA3VOi
— MINTEN SZN is over 🙁 (4-2-1) (@MatthewsForHart) October 29, 2023
The Pittsburgh Penguins and NHL released statements following the news of his death, along with his current team, the Nottingham Panthers.
“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 statement read. “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.
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) October 29, 2023
“Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing.”
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
From the DailyMail:
One witness told MailOnline that Mr Johnson tried to skate back to his team after the injury to his throat but collapsed before he made it, prompting panicked scenes as players and medics rushed out to help the stricken star.
Yorkshire Ambulance Service said they were called at around 8.21pm before sending two ambulances and a critical care paramedic – with one man taken to hospital.
According to the report, fans were in tears and passing out while witnessing the scene. Paramedics rushed to Johnson’s side and placed screens around him in an attempt to hide the horrific scene.
Johnson was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Our deepest condolences go out to Johnson’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
