Image: Getty
The ice hockey community has been left shaken after the death of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson, who died from the effects of a ‘freak accident’ during the Panther’s Challenge Cup derby-clash against Sheffield Steelers.
The incident took place at the Sheffield Utilita Arena on Saturday 29 October.
Johnson, who was just 29, went down in the 35th minute of the game after coming into contact with an ice skate blade.
The 8,000 people in attendance were evacuated from the arena and the match was abandoned as medics rushed to Johnson’s aide and players formed a barricade around him on the ice, but the former NHL player later passed away due to his injuries.
Ben Lant, 17, was sitting in front of the accident when it happened.
He said: “You could tell by the silence how serious it was, as an ice hockey game has a loud and passionate crowd, but not this time. It was quiet and empty-like.
“It wasn’t just on the ice. People were fainting, families were carrying their kids out who were dressed in Halloween costumes full of tears.
“When we had to leave, I felt sick and shocked on what felt like the longest walk back to the car. I didn’t sleep much that night and stuck to my phone to see if there was any positive news, but none followed.
“At 17 it’s a horrible thing to witness, all that panic and the image of a man fighting for his life.
“I don’t think that image will leave my mind every time I sit in that arena again.”
The Sheffield teen has been a lifelong Steelers fan, attending games since he was 10, and believes now more than ever, people should talk about how this incident has left them feeling.
Ben said: “You hear stories about incidents like this, but you never think it could happen in your league, with your team and in your home arena.
“After the game, receiving the news he had passed, I lost all emotion and just went blank, not only feeling bad for Adam Johnson’s family, but also Matt Petgrave whose skate was the cause of this horrific accident and how he must be filled with guilt.
“I believe at a time like this, we have to share how we are feeling and make sure people are supported the right way.”
People gathered outside the Sheffield Utilita Arena on Sunday, laying flowers and paying their respects to the late player.
In a statement, Nottingham Panthers said they were ‘truly devastated’ after Johnson’s passing, saying “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”.
Sheffield Steelers also expressed their condolences to Johnson’s friends, family and teammates, and have provided a list of resources to access for those who are struggling to come to terms with what they saw.