Ice Hockey Player Adam Johnson Dead At 29 After “Freak Accident”

The sports world is in mourning over the death of a renowned athlete.

Adam Johnson, a 29-year-old American ice hockey player, died in a “freak accident” during an October 28 game, according to his team, the Nottingham Panthers.

Johnson, who joined the Elite Ice Hockey League squad in August, was playing in the Panthers’ Challenge Cup match at Utilita Arena Sheffield when he “appeared to suffer a serious neck injury” after colliding with a Sheffield Steelers player.

In a memorial posted on the Panthers’ website and social media platforms on October 29, the team sympathized with Johnson’s family.

“Everyone at the club, including players, staff, management, and ownership, are heartbroken at the news of Adam’s passing,” the statement said. Additionally, we are thinking of the supporters and employees of both teams, especially those who were present for or watched the game and will be heartbroken by today’s news. The Panthers thank everyone who came out last night to support Adam in the most difficult 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 said. “The Club will dearly miss him and will never forget him.”

Following his tragic passing, Johnson also received honors from the Elite Ice Hockey League.

“The thoughts of everyone connected with the EIHL are with Adam’s family, friends, and teammates at this incredibly sad and difficult time,” the organization stated. “We would also ask everyone to respect the privacy of Adam’s family at this time.”

All EIHL games scheduled for October 29 were canceled due to Johnson’s death.

Johnson, born in Minnesota, was a member of the National Hockey League’s Pittsburgh Penguins from 2018 to 2020 before joining the Panthers.

“The Pittsburgh Penguins join the entire hockey world in mourning the loss of Adam Johnson, whose life was tragically ended far too soon,” the team said on social media on October 29. “Adam will always be a Penguins family member.” It was an honor for us to witness him realize his dream of playing in the National Hockey League.”

Johnson also played for the Malmö Redhawks, the Ontario Reign, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, and the Augsburger Panther throughout his career.

SOURCE – (enews)