South Yorkshire Police are investigating the incident that led to the death of Adam Johnson during the game between Sheffield Steelers and the Nottingham Panthers.
In the 34th minute of the match on Friday night, former Pittsburgh Penguins player Johnson was left injured after another player’s skate collided with his neck.
Johnson was taken to hospital and pronounced deceased as a result of the collision with Matt Petgrave, Nottingham Panthers confirmed in a statement released on Saturday morning.
The match was abandoned following the accident.
South Yorkshire Police have since confirmed that they are investigating the incident.
South Yorkshire Police said: “We were called to reports that a player had been seriously injured during a Sheffield Steelers versus Nottingham Panthers game at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
“Officers attended the scene alongside other emergency services and one man, aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Sadly, he was later pronounced deceased at hospital.
“Our officers remain at the scene carrying out enquiries today (October 29) and our investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing.”
All Elite Ice Hockey League matches on Sunday 29 October were suspended following the announcement of the 29-year-old’s passing.
Fans who attended the game on Friday have been encouraged to seek support if they are struggling to process the events that took place.
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