According to PEOPLE, Adam Johnson, a former NHL player who played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, passed away on Saturday. His age was thirty-nine. Johnson passed away “following a freak accident” during a game against the Sheffield Steelers, according to a statement made by his team, the Nottingham Panthers of the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL).
“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 club wrote in a post to social media. “During this incredibly trying time, the Panthers would want to extend our condolences to Adam’s partner, family, and all of his friends. The announcement of Adam’s passing has devastated everyone associated with the club, including the players, staff, administration, and ownership. We also think of the supporters and personnel of both teams, particularly those who saw or attended the game and will be crushed by the news that was released today.
The Panthers vs. Steelers game was canceled, said the BBC, because of a “major medical emergency” that occurred in the 35th minute of play. According to reports, a skate-related cut to the neck is thought to have caused the injury that led to the game’s sudden halt.
The NHL released a statement saying, “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.” Johnson played with the Penguins in both the 2018–19 and 2019–20 campaigns. In 13 games, he made one goal and three assist appearances. Johnson also played abroad, including in the American Hockey League for a while.
The Pittsburgh Penguins released a statement saying, “We are in deepest sympathy with the family and hockey community of Adam Johnson, whose life ended far too soon.” “We extend our sincere sympathies to Adam’s friends and family, as well as to all of his coaches and teammates from the past and present. Adam is a member of the Penguins family for eternity.”
The EIHL canceled all of its games on Sunday and has not yet revealed its schedule for Wednesday’s games. The South Yorkshire Police said on Monday, according to ESPN, that “officers remain at the scene carrying out inquiries and our investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing.”
