Particle.news
Download on the App Store
28 ARTICLES
·
5mo ago

No Criminal Charges in Adam Johnson’s On-Ice Death

The CPS concludes there is no realistic prospect of conviction in the manslaughter investigation into the 2023 incident, closing the case after 17 months.

Image
Adam Johnson died after sustaining a cut to the neck in a collision with another player during the second period of the Nottingham Panthers’ game against the Sheffield Steelers in England on October 28, 2023.
Image
Johnson's death led to an outpouring of tributes.

Overview

  • Adam Johnson, a former NHL player, died in October 2023 after a skate blade fatally cut his neck during a game between the Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers.
  • Sheffield Steelers player Matt Petgrave was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in November 2023 but was re-bailed multiple times during the investigation.
  • The Crown Prosecution Service announced on April 29, 2025, that no charges would be brought, citing insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction.
  • The incident prompted safety reforms, including mandatory neck guards in the Elite Ice Hockey League starting January 2024, following a coroner's recommendation.
  • The case has sparked ongoing discussions about player safety and protective equipment standards across professional hockey leagues worldwide.