An inquest into the death of ice hockey player Adam Johnson has revealed significant disorganization in the emergency response following his fatal injury. Paramedics reportedly had to climb over barriers to reach the 29-year-old Nottingham Panthers forward.

Fatal Injury During Sheffield Match

Adam Johnson died after his throat was cut by a skate during an Elite Ice Hockey League Challenge Cup match in Sheffield on October 28, 2023. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, he was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Concerns Raised by the Coroner

Senior coroner Tanyka Rawden highlighted concerns regarding the accessibility of the ice for paramedics due to the chaotic scene. She also questioned the ambulance service’s assessment of the ice surface and the availability of necessary blood supplies during the emergency response.

Family Seeks Answers

Johnson’s family, including his mother Sue and girlfriend Ryan Wolfe, attended the pre-inquest review via video link from the United States. The coroner expressed her deep sympathy to the family, acknowledging their immense grief.

Investigation and Witnesses

The incident involved Sheffield Steelers defenceman Matt Petgrave, whose skate accidentally caused the fatal injury. While initially arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, Petgrave was later cleared of charges. His barrister confirmed he is currently in Canada.

Lengthy Inquest Planned

The coroner plans to call Petgrave and nine other players from the match as witnesses. However, none of these individuals are currently in the UK. The full inquest, to be conducted before a jury, is expected to last between four and six weeks, potentially beginning in 2027 due to the complexity of the investigation.

Scope of the Inquest

The inquest will examine the cause of the injury, the adequacy of medical provisions at the arena, and the timeliness of the medical response. The incident occurred in front of approximately 8,000 spectators, who formed a protective circle around Johnson as paramedics worked to provide aid.

Preventative Measures

In January 2024, the coroner issued a Prevention of Future Deaths Report to Ice Hockey UK and the English Ice Hockey Association, recommending mandatory neck guards. The Elite League subsequently mandated neck protectors following a similar directive from the International Ice Hockey Federation in December 2023.

The inquest will also consider whether a visit to the arena by the jury is necessary and if relocating the hearing from Sheffield would be beneficial.