Police make manslaughter arrest after death of ice hockey star Adam Johnson
A man has been arrested following the death of ice hockey star Adam Johnson.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed the arrest on Tuesday following an investigation. They haven't named the man arrested. Their statement read: "Detectives have today arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter. He remains in police custody at this time."
Johnson was seriously injured during a game between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield on October 28 after colliding with Matt Petgrave. The American's death was confirmed at a nearby hospital. He was aged just 29.
Steelers played their first game since the incident on Sunday, beating Coventry Blaze 2-1 at the Utilita Arena. Steelers star Petgrave didn't feature, but fans showed their support by giving him a standing ovation. A moment of silence was also held.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed Johnson's death was the "result of a fatal neck injury". They added: "Adam's family is being supported through the investigation by our officers. They have asked for their privacy to be respected at this incredibly difficult time."
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South Yorkshire Police's detective chief superintendent Becs Horsfall has commented on the arrest. She said: "Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances.
"We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our enquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation. Adam's death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world.
"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."
South Yorkshire Police confirmed Johnson's death was the result of a "fatal neck injury" (Getty Images)Write your message of support in the comments below
Johnson was born in Hibbing, Minnesota and played in the National Hockey League, North America's leading division, for Pittsburgh Penguins. He also played in Sweden and Germany, as well for other teams in the United States, before joining the Panthers in August.
Johnson was laid to rest in Hibbing earlier this month. "My sweet, sweet angel," wrote his fiancee Ryan Wolfe on Instagram shortly after his passing. "I'll miss you forever and love you always."
Johnson's family have also published an emotional obituary. A section of it read: "He was many things to many people, but to those who were lucky enough to be loved by Adam knew he was thoughtful, patient and genuinely authentic. He loved his fiancee, family, and friends above all else. His loving and quiet demeanour will be eternally missed."
A memorial game will take place between the Panthers and Manchester Storm at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham this Saturday. Panthers will wear AJ47 memorial jerseys, which is the number Johnson wore throughout his career.
"Our thoughts remain with Adam's partner Ryan, his family, friends and the whole of the Hibbing community who clearly loved Adam dearly," said the Panthers CEO Omar Pacha.
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