Ex-NHL player Adam Johnson dies following horrific on-ice accident

Sep 25, 2017; Detroit, MI, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Adam Johnson (47) checks Detroit Red Wings defenseman Robbie Russo (18) during the second period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Former NHL player Adam Johnson died over the weekend after he was involved in a horrific on-ice accident.

Johnson was playing for the Nottingham Panthers of England’s Elite Ice Hockey League on Saturday when his throat was cut by an opposing player’s skate blade. He sustained the injury during a collision with Sheffield Steelers player Matt Petgrave in the second period.

Johnson received emergency medical treatment on the ice. Players returned to the locker room after Johnson was taken to a local hospital. The roughly 8,000 fans who were at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena for the game were asked to leave the building due to a “major medical emergency,” according to ESPN.

On Sunday, the Panthers announced in a statement that Johnson has died. He was 29.

“Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing,” the statement read. “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 would like to thank everyone 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 teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The Club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.”

Johnson played in 13 NHL games with the Pittsburgh Penguins across the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. He also played for the AHL affiliates of the Penguins, Los Angeles Kings and Philadelphia Flyers.

The NHL also issued a statement after news of Johnson’s death was announced.

NHL statement on the passing Of former @penguins forward Adam Johnson:
 
“The National Hockey League family mourns the passing of former Pittsburgh Penguin Adam Johnson. Our prayers and deepest condolences go to his family, friends and teammates.”

— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) October 29, 2023