29 October 2023 , 09:15
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The Elite Hockey League has postponed all scheduled games this Sunday as the sport comes to terms with the tragic death of Nottingham Panthers star Adam Johnson.
Johnson, 29, was fatally wounded by a skate blade in a freak accident while playing against Sheffield Steelers in the Challenge Cup. He collapsed following the mid-ice collision and was given medical treatment.
The 8,000 fans in attendance were asked to leave Sheffield Arena and the match was abandoned while Johnson was rushed to hospital, but the former Pittsburgh Penguins star was tragically confirmed dead on Sunday.
A statement from the EIHL read: "The Elite Ice Hockey League is heartbroken to confirm that Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson sadly passed away following a freak accident in Saturday's game between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers.
"In light of this deeply upsetting news, the Elite League has postponed all games scheduled to take place on Sunday 29 October 2023.
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"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. We would also ask everyone to respect the privacy of Adam's family at this time."
A statement from the Panthers read: "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.
Adam Johnson in action for the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2019 (Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)"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. The Panthers would like to thank everyone who rushed to support Adam last night in the most testing of 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 will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.
"We ask that the privacy of Adam's family and friends, and everyone at the club is respected at this difficult time as we all seek to come to terms with our grief. Rest in peace, Adam."