A man has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and later dancing following the death of hockey player Adam Johnson in Sheffield last month.
Johnson died after being cut on the neck by a skate during a match against the Sheffield Steelers on October 28 in what his club, the Nottingham Panthers, described as a “freak accident”.
South Yorkshire Police had opened an investigation and said on Tuesday that a man, who was not named, had been arrested.
A statement read: “Officers investigating the death of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson have made an arrest. Detectives arrested a man today (Tuesday 14 November) on suspicion of manslaughter. He is currently still in police custody.
“Adam’s family are being supported throughout the investigation by our officers. “They have asked that their privacy be respected at this incredibly difficult time.”
It was confirmed on Wednesday that the man in question had been released on bail and inquiries were continuing.
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Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall said: “Our investigation was launched immediately after this tragedy and we have since carried out extensive inquiries to piece together the events that led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances.
“We have spoken to highly specialized experts in their field to help us with our investigation and continue to work closely with Sheffield City Council’s health and safety department, who are supporting our ongoing investigation.
“Adam’s death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans around the world. We know that these communities expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other, and we ask members of the public to refrain from comments and speculation that could impede this process. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating incident as investigations continue.”
Johnson was taken to Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital on 28 October but died later that day as a result of his injury.
An inquest into his death was opened and admitted on 3 November.
Tributes from across the sport were paid to Johnson, with fans invited by the Panthers to attend a memorial event at their home stadium.
The 29-year-old’s death has prompted a greater push to protect players’ necks.
The English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) has announced that it will make approved neck guards/guards compulsory equipment for “players at all levels of English ice hockey”.
Editor’s note: Comments for this story are disabled for legal reasons. In the UK, arrested suspects have the right to privacy until the police officially charge them with a crime.
(Photo: Getty Images)