- Around 8,000 fans were in attendance at the Nutita Arena in Sheffield during a tragic match
- The Minnesota resident’s aunt called for “justice” and a detailed investigation into his death
- The sport’s response has led to some teams wearing neck protectors for safety
A coroner has offered her ‘heartfelt condolences’ to the family and friends of Nottingham Panthers ice hockey player Adam Johnson, who died after suffering a serious injury during a match watched by thousands.
The 29-year-old American was playing for the Panthers against Sheffield Steelers on Saturday when he was struck in the throat by an opponent’s skate, causing fatal injuries.
About 8,000 fans watched in horror as attempts were made to save Johnson’s life as he lay on the ice at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, protected by fellow players.
On Friday, Sheffield’s senior coroner Tanyka Rawden opened and adjourned an inquest into Johnson’s death at the Medico-Legal Center in Sheffield.
Ms Rawden confirmed personal details about the player, including that he was from Minnesota, in the United States, and gave very brief details of how he died.
Adam Johnson died Saturday after being seriously injured when he was hit in the throat by an opponent’s skate (pictured in 2019)
The American player’s girlfriend, Ryan Wolfe, reportedly ran onto the ice as Johnson received immediate help
Hockey teams have paid tribute to the player following his death, with his former Pittsburg Penguins team remembering him with a minute’s silence on Monday.
She said initial investigations had revealed that: ‘Mr Johnson had been seriously injured.’
‘He was taken by ambulance to the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield, where he died later that day from the injuries sustained.
“He was identified by his fiancée, Ryan Wolfe.”
She said the investigation into the death continues.
The coroner adjourned the inquest until January 26, but stressed this would be for a review and not for the full hearing.
Ms Rawden ended the four-minute hearing by saying she ‘would like to take this opportunity to offer my sincere condolences to his family, his friends and all who knew him at this difficult time.’