Ice hockey star Matthew Petgrave whose skate ‘slashed throat’ of opponent Adam Johnson appeals for donations to fund legal fees

An ice hockey star under police investigation over the death of another player during a match has revealed details of his ongoing ordeal.

Matthew Petgrave, 32, has made a public plea for help to cover his mounting legal costs, naming himself as the man under criminal investigation for manslaughter.

He remains on bail for more than a year following the tragic death of Adam Johnson, 29, who was killed when an opponent’s skate blade struck his neck during a match between arch-rivals Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers.

A video of the incident, which took place in front of 8,000 fans at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, circulated worldwide on social media.

Petgrave has not been mentioned in the media as the player who may face criminal charges since police arrested him.

But he has now posted a detailed statement on a ‘crowd justice’ website in a bid to raise thousands of pounds to pay his legal costs.

Under the heading “help needed for legal fees related to manslaughter charge,” he writes that he is “seeking help to cover some of my legal fees following an ice hockey accident in 2023.”

The Canadian revealed that his situation has worsened as he is currently unable to make a living as an ice hockey player due to his visa having expired.

Adam Johnson suffered the horrific injury while playing for the Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers on October 28, 2023

Additionally, his insurance coverage has been terminated, prompting the move to seek public assistance to cover legal costs.

Petgrave wrote: “My name is Matthew Petgrave and I have been a professional ice hockey player for the past seven years, most recently with the Sheffield Steelers of the EIHL. Hockey has been my lifelong passion and I consider it a great privilege to have built a career in the sport.”

He continued, “On October 28, 2023, I was involved in a tragic accident that resulted in the death of fellow ice hockey player Adam Johnson.

‘A police investigation is ongoing and the legal process has been long and challenging.’

The player then thanked everyone who had supported him over the past year.

“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me, including my teammates, fellow players and league staff, who have supported me from the beginning and continue to do so.

“Your support has been invaluable to me and my family during this incredibly difficult time.

‘Initially I had the benefit of insurance cover, but through no fault of my own this was stopped.

Petgrave has made a public plea for help to cover his mounting legal costs, naming himself as the man under criminal investigation for manslaughter.

The American athlete’s death stunned ice hockey fans around the world. His number ’47’ jersey has since been retired by his former team, as a tribute (pictured is a fan holding his shirt)

Nottingham Panthers later retired Adam Johnson’s number 47 jersey following his death

‘In addition, the time and costs involved in the legal investigation and possible legal proceedings are difficult for me to cover on a privately funded basis.

‘This is particularly challenging as my UK visa has expired, meaning I can no longer work as a professional ice hockey player whilst I still require legal assistance.

‘I am seeking assistance to cover some of my legal costs whilst subject to a police bail order, as well as additional costs if the matter goes to criminal court. The remaining money will be donated to initiatives that promote safety in hockey.’

South Yorkshire Police have said a man remains on bail as the investigation into the death of Adam Johnson continues.

Within days of the tragic incident, coroner Tanyka Rawden called for neck protectors to be made mandatory in ice hockey.

Britain’s Elite Ice Hockey League is ‘strongly encouraging’ players to wear neck protectors, but has not made them mandatory.

Johnson, an American, played in the National Hockey League for the Pittsburgh Penguins before becoming a star with the Nottingham Panthers.