Man arrested in connection with ice hockey player's death

A man has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the death of ice hockey player Adam Johnson in England last month.

South Yorkshire Police said that the man remains in police custody after being arrested.

Mr Johnson died on 28 October after being hit in the neck by the skate of a member of the opposing team during an ice hockey match at Sheffield's Utilita Arena.

The 29-year-old American was playing for Nottingham Panthers against Sheffield Steelers at the time of the incident, and later died in hospital.

Detective chief superintendent Becs Horsfall said: "Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive inquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances.

"We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our inquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation.

"Adam's death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world.

"We know these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation which could hinder this process.

"Our thoughts remain with all affected by this devastating incident as inquiries continue."

An inquest into Mr Johnson's death was opened and adjourned on 3 November, but Sheffield's senior coroner, Tanyka Rawden, has already called on the sport's governing bodies to take action.

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