Ice hockey player Adam Johnson was killed in a tragic “freak accident,” and one witness described it as “a bad dream.”
Star player for the Nottingham Panthers Johnson passed away on Saturday night (October 28) at the Utilita Arena during a game against the Sheffield Steelers.
During the game, with over 8,000 spectators on the sidelines, Sheffield Steelers player Matt Petgrave inadvertently slashed the American hockey player in the neck.
The’major medical emergency’ prompted Sheffield stadium patrons to evacuate.
Witnesses said that his girlfriend ran onto the ice and started to pray for him after the horrifying accident.
Witnesses also related how, following Johnson’s fatal injury, players from both teams surrounded him in a circle.
“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,” his team said in a statement following the tragedy.
“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.
“Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing.”
It has since emerged that Johnson suffered an accidental gash to his throat.
Speaking to the Sun, a fan named Hazel who witnessed the tragedy, said: “What happened was horrible and I can’t get the image out of my head.
“It is like a bad dream I can’t wake up from.”
The 46-year-old had gone with her husband Mark to pay their respects outside the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham where fans have begun to leave messages and flowers.
Describing the horrific accident, she went on: “Suddenly during the match the blade stuck the player’s throat and there was blood everywhere.
“He tried to get to the side of the arena but came crashing down.
“His team mates looked horrified and banded together around him to shield him from the crowd. They were amazing.
“Then the paramedics arrived and a protective screen was put around.
“We were all praying and hoping he would make it but sadly he didn’t.
“Our hearts go out to his family and friends and team mates
“I cannot imagine how they are feeling. We are feeling absolutely numb ourselves.
“It was a freak accident, totally tragic, and no one was to blame.”
