Adam Johnson's Death Reignites Ice Hockey Safety Debates

Nottingham Panthers Retire Johnson's Jersey in Memorial Game, as English Ice Hockey Association Considers Mandatory Neck Guards

Adam Johnson, a Nottingham Panthers hockey player, died after a mid-game collision with opponent Matt Petgrave, when his neck was cut by a skate blade.
Johnson's death has led to the arrest of a man on suspicion of manslaughter, who has since been released on bail, and has reignited safety debates surrounding the sport.
The Nottingham Panthers team and fans memorialized Johnson and retired his No. 47 jersey in a memorial game. The team has also launched an official fundraiser, the 'Love for Hibbing and Hockey Memorial Fund', to support local charitable activities in Johnson’s hometown area.
The English Ice Hockey Association will reportedly require all players in England to wear neck guards from the start of 2024.
The Panthers returned to the ice for a memorial game against Manchester Storm, where players, officials and fans observed 47 seconds of silence in honor of Johnson.