Adam Johnson, an American ice hockey player, died within minutes after his neck was sliced by an opposing player’s skate in England on Saturday.
Johnson, a forward for the Nottingham Panthers, was playing in a Challenge Cup match against the Sheffield Steelers was accidentally cut when he collided with a Steelers player.
The other player’s skate sliced Johnson’s carotid artery and he lost a lot of blood on the ice. Video footage shows a ref helping Johnson get to his feet, but the loss of blood caused Johnson to collapse while still on the ice. Unfortunately, he died on his way to the hospital.
Rumors swirled about Johnson’s fate until a spokesperson for the Nottingham Panthers announced his death Saturday night.
“The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night. 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.”
The spokesperson added: “Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing.”
8,000 fans were in the stands and saw the freak accident as it occurred. The game was later canceled.
“It was horrible to see. People were crying and passing out,” one shocked spectator said. Another person said “they’ll never get over” what they saw.
This video contains disturbing scenes that may not be suitable for all viewers.
