No criminal charges after ice hockey star, 29, had throat slashed during match

No criminal charges will be brought after an ice hockey player’s throat was fatally slashed with a skate during a match.

Adam Johnson, 29, died after the ‘freak accident’ while the Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers clashed in October 2023.

One month after the match at Utilita Arena in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, professional player Matt Petgrave, 29, was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

The Crown Prosecution Service today gave an update that no charges will be brought.

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.’

The match, which Adam’s family had been watching on a live stream, was abandoned in the 35th minute, with all 8,000 spectators asked to leave Sheffield’s Utilita Arena.

Adam’s death was confirmed by his team on Sunday morning. A post-mortem examination confirmed his cause of death as a neck injury.

The Nottingham Panthers said in a tribute that the team was ‘truly devastated’ by the ‘freak accident’.

They said: ‘Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The Club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.’

On a page crowdfunding for his legal costs, which has raised over £18,000, Mr Petgrave wrote: ‘On October 28, 2023, I was involved in a tragic accident that resulted in the passing of fellow ice hockey player Adam Johnson.

‘There is an ongoing police investigation and the legal process has been long and challenging.

‘I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me, including my teammates, fellow players, and league personnel, who have stood by me from the beginning and continue to do so. Your support has been invaluable to me and my family during this incredibly difficult time.’

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