Man Is Arrested On Suspicion Of Manslaughter In Hockey Player Adam Johnson’s Death During Match

Nearly three weeks after the death of Nottingham Panthers hockey player Adam Johnson, an arrest has been made.

“Officers investigating the death of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson have made an arrest. Detectives have today (Tuesday 14 November) arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter,” South Yorkshire Police said in a statement. “He remains in police custody at this time.”

On October 28, Johnson died in what is deemed a “freak accident” after a skate cut his neck while he and his team were playing against the Sheffield Steelers.

The investigation into Johnson’s death reportedly began “immediately following [the] tragedy,” according to Detective Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall.

“Adam’s death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world,” Horsfall said. “We know these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation which could hinder this process. Our thoughts remain with all affected by this devastating incident as enquiries continue.”

As a result of Johnson’s manner of death, the USA Hockey Board of Directors made a unanimous vote on Saturday to request “potential rule changes regarding neck laceration protection.”

The identity of the man arrested has not been disclosed.