The Crown Prosecution Service has decided it will not bring criminal charges against a professional ice hockey player following the death of an opponent in a match.
American athlete Adam Johnson died during a match between the Sheffield Steelers and the Nottingham Panthers in October 2023.
The centre suffered a fatal neck injury after a collision with another player in the 35th minute of the Elite League Challenge Cup match.
The incident that horrified fans watching at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena and those watching the game live online.
Players formed a protective ring around him as paramedics rushed onto the ice after he collapsed – but he was later declared dead at the city’s Northern General Hospital.
South Yorkshire Police launched an investigation following his death, and had arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter.
The Crown Prosecution Service, having assessed all evidence submitted to them by South Yorkshire Police, has concluded that it will not bring charges.
Ice hockey player Adam Johnson died following an incident during a match in Sheffield in October 2023 (pictured in 2019 playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins)
His death sparked an outpouring of tributes and calls to improve the safety of ice hockey for competitors (pictured: a memorial outside Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena)
Johnson’s jersey was later retired – and a man arrested in connection with his death has been told he will not face charges (pictured: fans mourning Johnson outside Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena)
Michael Quinn, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, said: ‘This was a shocking and deeply upsetting incident.
‘The CPS and South Yorkshire Police have worked closely together to determine whether any criminal charges should be brought against the other ice hockey player involved.
‘Following a thorough police investigation and a comprehensive review of all the evidence by the CPS, we have concluded that there is not a realistic prospect of conviction for any criminal offence and so there will not be a prosecution.
‘Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Adam Johnson.’
Johnson’s number 47 jersey was later retired by the Nottingham Panthers. His death sparked wider conversations about neck protection for ice hockey players.
This is a breaking story – more to follow.
