Ice hockey club release heartfelt statement after player Adam Johnson dies from slashed neck

UK ice hockey club, the Nottingham Panthers, have released a heartfelt statement following the news of Adam Johnson's death, who tragically passed away during a game on Saturday.

The 29-year-old was slashed in the neck by an ice hockey blade after a coming together with a Sheffield Steelers' player, who was attempting to tackle one of Mr Johnson's teammates.

More than 8,000 spectators were asked to leave the Utilita Arena in Sheffield after the incident was declared a 'major medical emergency'.

Witnesses have since described how players from both sets of teams formed a ring around Johnson on the ice, to help protect him from the public view.

The American was rushed to Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital, where he sadly died as a result of the accident.

Following the news, Johnson's heartbroken mother Kari said: "I lost half of my heart tonight."

Meanwhile, the player's team, whom he only joined in August, have issued a heartfelt statement in the wake of his passing.

It read: “The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.

“Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing. Our thoughts are also with the fans and staff of both clubs, especially those who attended or were following the game, who will be devastated following today's news.

"The Panthers would like to thank everyone who rushed to support Adam last night in the most testing of circumstances.

"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.

"We ask that the privacy of Adam's family and friends, and everyone at the club is respected at this difficult time as we all seek to come to terms with our grief.

"Rest in peace Adam."

As announced by the Elite Ice Hockey League, all of Sunday's games have been postponed as a result of the tragedy.