Coroner confirms the cause of death of ice hockey star Adam Johnson after the player’s throat was split by an opponent’s skate in horrific accident – before adjourning inquest until 2024

• Around 8,000 fans were present at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena  during tragic clash 
• Minnesota-native’s aunt called for ‘justice’ and a detailed probe into his death
• The sport’s reaction has seen a number of teams don neck guards for safety 

A coroner has offered her ‘sincere condolences’ to the family and friends of Nottingham Panthers ice hockey player Adam Johnson, who died after sustaining a serious injury during a match watched by thousands.

The 29-year-old American was playing for the Panthers against Sheffield Steelers on Saturday when he was hit in the throat by an opponent’s skate, causing a fatal injury.

About 8,000 fans watched in horror as attempts were made to save Johnson’s life as he lay on the ice at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena, shielded by fellow players.

On Friday, Sheffield’s senior coroner Tanyka Rawden opened and adjourned an inquest into Johnson’s death at Sheffield’s Medico-Legal Centre.

Mrs Rawden confirmed personal details about the player, including that he was from Minnesota, in the United States, and gave very brief details of how he died.

Adam Johnson died on Saturday after sustaining serious injury when he was hit in the throat by an opponent’s skate (pictured in 2019)

The American player’s girlfriend Ryan Wolfe is thought to have run onto the ice as Johnson received immediate help

Hockey teams have paid tribute to the player in the wake of his passing, with his former Pittsburg Penguins side remembering him with a minute’s silence on Monday 

She said that initial investigations had found that: ‘Mr Johnson was seriously injured.’

‘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.

‘He was identified by his fiancee, Ryan Wolfe.’

She said inquiries into the death were continuing.

The coroner adjourned the inquest until January 26 but stressed that this would be for a review and not for the full hearing.

Mrs Rawden concluded the four-minute long hearing by saying she wanted to ‘take this opportunity to offer to his family, his friends and all those who knew him, my sincere condolences at this difficult time.’

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