Adam Johnson

I am Tanyka Rawden, Senior Coroner for the Coroner area of South Yorkshire (West).

INVESTIGATION On 1 November 2023 I commenced an investigation into the death of Adam Robert Johnson, aged 29 years. The investigation has not yet concluded, and the inquest has not yet been heard.

Adam Johnson was a Professional Ice Hockey Player. On 28 October 2023 he was playing for the Nottingham Panthers in a game against the Sheffield Steelers at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield. During the game Mr Johnson sustained an incised wound to the neck caused by the skate of another player. He was taken by ambulance to the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield where he died as a result of his injury.

During the course of the investigation my inquires revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows: The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) recommends that neck guards or protectors are worn, but there is no requirement for ice hockey players over the age of 18 to wear equipment designed to protect the neck. In due course the inquest will consider whether the use of a neck guard or protector could have prevented Mr Johnson’s death. At this stage in my investigation however, I am sufficiently concerned that deaths may occur in the future if neck guards or protectors are not worn.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you have the power to take such action.