Adam Johnson’s heartbroken partner Ryan Wolfe identified body of Nottingham Panthers ice hockey star after skate tragedy
TRAGIC ice hockey star Adam Johnson’s body was identified by his fiancée after his throat was slashed during a game, an inquest heard.
The Nottingham Panthers star, 29, was killed when he collided with rival Matt Petgrave in a freak accident on Saturday.
Around 8,000 fans watched in horror as Johnson lay stricken on the ice at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena.
An inquest into his death heard how his fiancée Ryan Wolfe identified his body after he died in hospital later that day.
No cause of death was revealed during the brief hearing in Sheffield but Sheffield Coroner Tanyka Rawden said Johnson was “seriously injured”.
She added: “He was taken by ambulance to the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield where he died later that day as a result of the injuries sustained.”
The full inquest was adjourned until January 26, 2024, while an investigation into his death continues.
Ms Rawden concluded: “I would like to take this opportunity to offer to Mr Johnson’s family, friends and everyone that knew him my sincere condolences.”
It comes as South Yorkshire Police launched a probe into Johnson’s death.
The force warned the investigation would take “some time” as they continue to trawl through footage of the collision.
Video clips show Petgrave’s leg being sent into the air after he was knocked off-balance.
The Sheffield Steelers’ star’s skate then strikes Johnson’s neck before his teammates stopped the game.
Johnson received emergency treatment on the ice as he was shielded by players before being taken to hospital.
The collision was described as a “freak accident” in a club statement released by the Panthers.
But Johnson’s family said they believe Petgrave’s actions may have been “reckless”.
His aunt Kari Johnson, 62, said: “It was very reckless. I just want them to get it right. We are looking for justice for Adam.”
Her comments were echoed by Sean Avery, who played for four NHL clubs across more than a decade.
Meanwhile, Petgrave is said to be “absolutely distraught”. There has been no suggestion of wrongdoing.
Tragically, Johnson is understood to have become engaged to partner Ryan during the summer.
She took to Instagram on Monday morning to share a picture of the ice hockey player.
Ryan said: “My sweet, sweet angel. I’ll miss you forever and love you always.”