28 October 2023 went down in history as the day of tragedy for hockey in England, with Adam Johnson dying after his neck was cut by a skate during a collision with Sheffield Steelers defenseman Matt Petgrave. After an 18-month-long inquiry, on 29 April 2025
The Incident That Shocked the Hockey World
While Johnson, aged 29, was skating with the puck in a game between the Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers, Petgrave collided with another player. As Petgrave became airborne, his skate blade raised and caught the neck of Johnson, from where the carotid artery was severed.
The Panthers initially described the collision as a “freak accident,” but South Yorkshire Police launched a manslaughter investigation. Two weeks later, a man—later confirmed to be Petgrave—was arrested. Though never formally named by authorities, Petgrave publicly acknowledged his involvement in a crowdfunding appeal for legal fees, raising over £18,000.
The Investigation and Decision Not to Prosecute
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) conducted a thorough review, consulting video evidence, witnesses, and North American hockey experts. Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor Michael Quinn stated:
“Following a comprehensive review of all the evidence, we concluded there is no realistic prospect of conviction for any criminal offense.”
Key factors in the decision included:
- Lack of intent: Teammates, including Victor Björkung, insisted the collision was accidental.
- Sport’s inherent risks: High-speed collisions and skate-related injuries are known hazards in hockey.
- No prior misconduct: Petgrave had no history of violent play.
Impact on Hockey Safety Regulations
Johnson’s death sparked global calls for mandatory neck guards. The English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) made them compulsory starting in 2024, though the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) only “strongly encouraged” their use. Other leagues, including the IIHF and U.S. high school hockey, also adopted stricter safety measures.
Legacy and Tributes
Johnson, a former Pittsburgh Penguins player, was remembered as a “humble, positive leader” at a memorial where his No. 47 jersey was retired . His fiancée, Ryan Wolfe, and family mourned the loss of a man who was “planning to propose” before his tragic death.
Conclusion
The case is now closed, but the death of Johnson continues being an engine toward change in the safe conduct of hockey. The lack of criminal charges denotes the accidental nature of this incident, but the sport continues trying to ensure that a similar incident never stands second to a tragedy again.
People Ask Also
1. What happened to Adam Johnson during the hockey game on 28 October 2023?
Adam Johnson, a 29-year-old Nottingham Panthers player, tragically died after his neck was accidentally cut by a skate blade during a collision with Sheffield Steelers defenseman Matt Petgrave.
2. Was anyone held legally responsible for Adam Johnson’s death?
Following an 18-month investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) concluded there was no realistic prospect of conviction and decided not to press charges, determining the incident to be accidental.
3. Why was there a manslaughter investigation?
Due to the severity and unusual nature of the injury, South Yorkshire Police launched a manslaughter investigation. Matt Petgrave was arrested two weeks after the incident, though he was never formally charged.
4. How did the hockey world respond to the incident?
Johnson’s death led to widespread tributes and spurred major safety reforms, including the mandatory use of neck guards in several leagues such as the EIHA, IIHF, and U.S. high school hockey.
5. What is Adam Johnson’s legacy in the hockey community?
Adam Johnson is remembered as a talented and humble player whose tragic passing prompted crucial safety changes. His No. 47 jersey was retired, and tributes continue in his memory across the hockey world.
