Who hit Adam Johnson? Know everything about the hockey player’s devastating death

Here's everything you need to know about the sudden and tragic demise of former NHL star Adam Johnson.

Who hit Adam Johnson? Know everything about the hockey player’s devastating death

Adam Johnson passed away after a terrible accident (Image source: IMAGO)

The story of 29-year-old ice hockey player Adam Johnson came to a tragic end as he succumbed to a gruesome injury suffered during a game on Saturday, October 28th. The incident involved a collision with one of his opponents, Matt Petgrave resulting in a slash to his throat. The former was given immediate medical attention on the ice as he collapsed to everyone’s horror in the arena.

The ex-NHL player was representing his English team Nottingham Panthers against hosts Sheffield Steelers in the Elite Ice Hockey League. With Millions spectating from around the globe and nearly 8000 in attendance. It was total pandemonium as play was suddenly called off by match officials upon realizing the gravity of the situation. The scene was nauseating as everyone present was asked to immediately evacuate the arena as the Nottingham Panthers declared a “Major Medical Emergency.

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How did Adam Johnson get hit?

“The freak accident” as many have termed it, took place in the second half when a scramble caused an opposing player’s skate blade to deliver a fatal cut to the throat of Johnson. The cut caused Johnson to bleed profusely until he collapsed despite his best efforts to stand up. The 29-year-old was rushed to the nearest hospital, Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital before being pronounced dead later by the local police department.

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Adam Johnson Matt Petgrave
Adam Johnson gets a tribute (Image source: Bleacher Report)

Matt Petgrave, the man who had the misfortune of being on the other side of the fateful collision, had to bear the brunt of endless grieving fans around the world. The Sheffield Steelers star was found in an unnatural and compromised position by the multitude who judged the collision using slow-motion footage.

Many spectators and pandits also raised questions regarding the position of his leg which ultimately caused the injury. The local police department has also started an investigation to rule out any suspicion of foul play.

Adam Johnson’s loved ones witnessed forward’s tragic death

Adam Johnson [Image Credit: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette]
Adam Johnson [Image Credit: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette]

Among the patrons witnessing the horror firsthand were, Johnson’s father and his aunt, who had connected via livestream. Tributes for the Minnesota native started pouring as friends, family and fans said their final goodbyes. These included messages from his aunt who wrote:

“I lost half of my heart today. Love you always Munch”.

His girlfriend Ryan Wolfe shared an image captioned “My sweet, sweet angel,”. His former University coach and past team members also shared their heartfelt thoughts and condolences.

The world of ice hockey (and sports in general) has been left with a void that may never be filled. Yet, the incident might lead to some long changes to be enacted, preventing such horrid accidents from ever happening again. Authorities have already mandated the use of neck guards with many other revisions following suit. In this dark hour, our honest prayers and deepest condolences must always reside with the kin of the 29-year-old. Taken too soon indeed.

FAQs

1) How old was Adam Johnson?

Adam Johnson was 29 at the time of the incident.

2) Who hit Adam Johnson?

He was hit by Matt Petgrave.

3) Who did Adam Johnson play for?

He was playing for Nottingham Panthers.

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