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Indy Fuel Sign Matt Petgrave to ECHL Deal Nearly Two Years After Fatal On-Ice Accident

Team ownership says the defenseman deserves a chance to resume his career after prosecutors found no realistic prospect of conviction in April.

Overview

  • The Chicago BlackhawksECHL affiliate announced Petgrave has signed a standard player contract for the upcoming season.
  • Johnson died after Petgrave’s skate cut his neck during an Elite Ice Hockey League game in 2023, and Petgrave has not played professionally since.
  • Petgrave was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, spent about 17 months on bail, and was not prosecuted after the Crown Prosecution Service’s April decision.
  • Fuel ownership said it held in-depth discussions with Petgrave’s former coaches and teammates and believes he should be allowed to continue his career.
  • Petgrave thanked the organization and Indianapolis for the opportunity, as the signing drew a wide range of public reactions online.