Former NHL player Adam Johnson died, aged 29, after what England's Elite Ice Hockey League labeled a "freak accident" during a game.
Johnson, who was playing for Nottingham Panthers, collided with another player and suffered a slashed neck from a skate during the second period of a game at Sheffield's Utilita Arena. He received emergency treatment on the ice and was taken to Sheffield's Northern General Hospital.
Officials stopped the game and asked the fans to leave the building, because of what the Panthers announced as a "major medical emergency".
"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 team said.
"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."
Johnson, a native of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, collected one goal and three assists as a forward in 13 games with the Penguins over parts of two seasons from 2018-20.
"The Pittsburgh Penguins join the entire hockey world in mourning the loss of Adam Johnson, whose life tragically ended far too soon," the Penguins said.
"We offer our deepest condolences to Adam's family and friends, as well as all of Adam's past and present teammates and coaches. Adam will always be a part of the Penguins family.
"It was our honor to watch him fulfill his dream of playing in the National Hockey League."
The NHL said: "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."
Reuters
