Police have said their investigation into the death of ice hockey player Adam Johnson “remains ongoing” and will likely “take some time”.
Nottingham Panthers player Johnson, 29, was cut in the neck by a skate worn by Sheffield Steelers’ Matt Petgrave, 31, during a match on Saturday evening at the Sheffield Arena.
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Players surrounded Johnson and tried to stem the bleeding, forming a ring around him on the ice rink. Johnson was then taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.
South Yorkshire Police said on Tuesday that detectives had been reviewing footage, talking to witnesses and seeking the advice and support of experts to try and piece together what happened.
They have also been working closely with Sheffield City Council’s health and safety department, which is supporting the investigation.
Police urged the public to avoid speculation, including on social media, about the incident.
On Monday, the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) announced it is making approved neck guards/protectors a mandatory piece of equipment for “players at all levels across English Ice Hockey” in the wake of Johnson’s death.
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Police statement in full
“Our investigation into the death of a player following a Sheffield Steelers versus Nottingham Panthers game at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield on Saturday 28 October remains ongoing,” South Yorkshire Police said.
“Since Saturday, detectives have been carrying out a range of enquiries including reviewing footage, talking to witnesses and seeking the advice and support of highly specialised experts to seek to understand the circumstances surrounding what happened. We have also been working closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our investigation.
“As with all unexpected and sudden deaths, it is standard practice for police to investigate the circumstances fully and feedback our findings to HM Coroner.
“Our officers have now left the scene, however, due to the complex nature of this tragic and unprecedented incident, it is likely the wider investigation will take some time.
“We continue to encourage the public to avoid speculation, including on social media, while we continue our enquiries and will provide updates when appropriate. Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of all those affected.”
(Photo: John Russell/NHLI via Getty Images)
