An ice hockey player has died after reportedly being struck with a blade to the neck during a freak accident in Sheffield.
Adam Johnson’s mother Kari announced on Facebook that she had lost “half of my heart” as it was confirmed the American had died at the age of 29.
Spectators were said to have been left in tears as the match between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers, Johnson’s team, at the Utilita Arena was immediately abandoned.
His club said in a statement it was “truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield”.
“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,” a statement added. “Everyone at the club including players, staff, management and ownership is heartbroken at the news of Adams passing.”
Several thousand were in the crowd for the match and the club said “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 Panthers also expressed gratitude to those who “rushed” to “support Adam last night in the most testing of circumstances”.
“Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great team-mate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him,” the club added. “The club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.”
Yorkshire Ambulance Service said they were called at around 8.20pm before sending two ambulances and a critical care paramedic. One spectator was reported as saying they would “never get over” what they saw.
More to follow…
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