ADAM Johnson's devastated aunt has shared a heartbreaking tribute after the ice hockey star died in a freak "throat slash" accident.
Nottingham Panthers player Johnson died after a skate blade reportedly slashed his throat in a horrific game injury.
Posting on Facebook, his aunt Kari said: "I lost half of my heart tonight."
Former NHL star Johnson, 29, suffered a gash to his throat in the freak accident, according to witnesses.
The game between his new team the Nottingham Panthers and the Sheffield Steelers had to be abandoned.
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The team said: "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 Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.
"Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing.
"Our thoughts are also with the fans and staff of both clubs, especially those who attended or were following the game, who will be devastated following today's news."
At an impromptu vigil for Johnson today, Nottingham Panthers assistant coach Kevin Moore told fans: "We are all going to get through this with a lot of love, a lot of thought and laughter."
South Yorkshire Police said: "We were called at 8.25pm yesterday 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 and our investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing."
Yorkshire Ambulance Service said last night: "We were called at 8:21 this evening to the Sheffield Steelers game at Sheffield arena.
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"We attended a male and sent two ambulances and a critical care paramedic, and we sent one patient to hospital."