American ice hockey player dies after being stabbed in the neck in freak accident during weekend game

An ice hockey player died on Saturday after a bizarre accident during a game in which he was apparently shot in the throat with a knife.

29-year-old American professional Adam Johnson, who played for the Nottingham Panthers team in the UK, suffered the horrific injury during a match against the Sheffield Steelers at the Utilita Arena Sheffield on Saturday night.

Witnesses reported that Johnson appeared to have been hit in the neck by another player’s hockey stick. The Daily email cites a witness who reported that after the collision, Johnson initially tried to run back to his team, but collapsed on the ice, where he was attended to by paramedics and other players. Fences were erected and 8,000 fans were asked to leave the area while his treatment continued.

The Nottingham Panthers confirmed the news of the player’s death and said they were devastated to lose such a talented player:

“Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a horrific accident during last night’s game in Sheffield.

“The Panthers would like to express our thoughts and condolences to Adam’s family, his partner and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.

“Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person who had his whole life ahead of him.

“Everyone at the club, including players, staff, management and owners, is saddened by the news of Adam’s death.”

Johnson’s mother shared her grief on social media, saying: “I lost half of my heart today.”

The Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) has confirmed that Sunday’s games in the UK have been postponed “in light of this deeply distressing news”.