Former NHL Penguins player Adam Johnson (29) died on October 28, after a "freak accident" occurred during his English team's game. He played for the Nottingham Panthers in England's Elite Ice Hockey League. His death has spurred discussions of player safety and protective neck guards in Hockey.
The Incident
During the second period of the Panthers vs. Sheffield Steelers game, Johnson was involved in an incident with Matt Petgrave (31). Petgrave collided with another Panther player and as he fell, his left skate kicked up and the blade hit Johnson in the neck.
Officials immediately stopped the game after both players landed on the ice. Petgrave quickly got up but Johnson rose slowly with a blood-soaked jersey. Johnson received emergency treatment and was taken to Sheffield's Northern General Hospital. He later passed away in the hospital from his injury.
With Heavy Hearts
Shortly after Johnson's death, the Nottingham Panthers disclosed the organization was "heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing." EIHL released a statement saying, "The thoughts and condolences of everyone connected with the EIHL are with Adam's family, friends, and teammates at this incredibly sad and difficult time." The NHL also announced, "Our prayers and deepest condolences go to his family, friends and teammates."
An Arrest Has Been Made
South Yorkshire (England) police announced on Tuesday, November 14 that a man has since been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in Adam Johnson's death. The arrest comes after more than two weeks since police began investigating the incident during the game. The police stated a postmortem examination confirmed Johnson died from a fatal neck injury. They did not release the identity of the man arrested, who was released on bail Wednesday pending further questions.
Changes in Neck Guard Policy
Since Johnson's death, several hockey leagues have begun examining their player safety measures, specifically neck protection devices. Two days after Johnson's death, the English Ice Hockey Association announced they would implement a three-step plan, making neck guards mandatory beginning in 2024 as step one.
The NHL has not made plans to require players to wear any specific neck gear. The NHL Players' Association would need to agree upon any mandates. Several NHL players have since chosen to wear neck guards during practice and games.
Pittsburgh Penguins, Johnson's former NHL team, stated they would mandate protective neck guards for their AHL and ECHL affiliates. Following this decision, the Western Hockey League communicated it would also require neck guards for its players.
