Adam Johnson’s heartbroken family pay tribute following ice hockey star’s tragic death – as fans gather for vigil
THE family of tragic ice hockey star Adam Johnson say they are still “in shock” following his horrific death.
The Nottingham Panthers player died on Saturday after an opposing player’s skate slashed his throat in a freak accident.
The 29-year-old was rushed to hospital but pronounced dead a short time later.
Speaking to Sky News, aunt Kari Johnson said she and Adam’s family were watching the game via a livestream when they “knew right away he was in trouble”.
The aunt, from Minnesota, USA, said: “Then it was just a waiting game waiting to hear from somebody.
“It was terrible, it was horrific, we didn’t know what to do. There was nothing we could do.”
Adam’s dad got a call from a teammate saying he would keep in touch before the family were informed Adam had not made it.
Kari said: “We all just broke down: it was a mess, it was a nightmare, it was like it wasn’t real.
“We were in shock, we couldn’t believe this was happening.”
Sheffield Steelers player Mat Petgrave had lost his balance and raised his skate before slashing Adam’s neck during the match at Sheffield Arena.
There is no suggestion Petgrave did anything wrong.
The game was postponed in the 35th minute as Johnson’s horrified girlfriend charged onto the ice in front of 8,000 fans.
Kari said Adam had been “having the time of his life” playing in the UK and was planning to get engaged to girlfriend Ryan Woolfe this summer.
On Monday, Ryan, who Adam lived with in England, shared a picture of her tragic boyfriend on Instagram.
She wrote: “My sweet, sweet angel. I’ll miss you forever and love you always.”
Panthers fans gathered at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham on Saturday to remember Adam.
Thousands lay floral tributes outside and a book of condolence was opened for fans to sign on the ice.