A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and later bailed following the death of hockey player Adam Johnson in Sheffield last month.
On 28 October, Johnson died after being hit in the neck by a skate during a game against Sheffield Steelers, in what his club the Nottingham Panthers described as a “freak accident”.
South Yorkshire Police had launched an investigation and said on Tuesday that a man, who has not been named, had been arrested.
A statement said: “Officers investigating the death of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson have made an arrest. Detectives have today (Tuesday 14 November) arrested a man on suspicion of murder. He is currently in police custody.
“Adam’s family are being supported by our officers through the investigation. They have asked for their privacy to be respected during this incredibly difficult time.
It was confirmed on Wednesday that the man concerned has been released on police bail while the investigation continues.
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Detective Chief Superintendent Bex Horsfall said: “Our investigation began immediately after this tragedy and we are carrying out extensive inquiries to piece together the events that led to Adam’s death in these unprecedented circumstances.
“We are speaking to highly specialized experts in their field to assist our inquiries and are continuing to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, who is supporting our ongoing investigation.
“Adam’s death has shocked many communities, from our local residents in Sheffield to ice hockey fans around the world. We know that these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, impartiality and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public avoid comment and speculation that could hinder this process. “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this devastating incident as the inquiry continues.”
Johnson was taken to Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital on 28 October, but died from his injuries later the same day.
An inquest into his death was launched and adjourned on 3 November.
Tributes to Johnson have poured in from across the sporting world, with the Panthers inviting fans to attend a memorial event at their home stadium.
The death of the 29-year-old player has increased the emphasis on neck protection for players.
The English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) announced that it is making approved neck guards/protectors mandatory equipment for “players at all levels in English ice hockey”.
Editor’s note: Comments are disabled for this story for legal reasons. In the United Kingdom, arrested suspects have the right to privacy until the police officially charge them with a crime.
(Photo: Getty Images)
