Adam Johnson Inquest Reveals 'Chaotic Scene' for Paramedics at Sheffield Arena
The pre-inquest review into the death of ice hockey player Adam Johnson has revealed significant concerns regarding the emergency response at Sheffield Arena last October. Johnson, aged 29, playing for the Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers, sustained a fatal neck injury from an opposing player's skate.
Sheffield's senior coroner, Tanyka Rawden, stated that evidence from Yorkshire Ambulance Service paramedics depicted a "chaotic scene". She specifically questioned how ambulance personnel accessed the ice, noting one paramedic reported having to climb barriers because "nobody could show them on to the ice." Rawden also raised queries about the immediate availability of blood for the attending medical team.
Addressing Johnson's family, who joined via video-link from the US, Rawden acknowledged the horrific impact of his death. The coroner outlined the inquest's scope to include the injury's cause, arena medical provision, and the timeliness and appropriateness of care.
The Crown Prosecution Service previously opted not to press criminal charges against Canadian player Matt Petgrave, who is currently in Canada. Rawden indicated she is considering calling Petgrave and nine other players to give evidence, though this is under review as none are presently in the UK. The full inquest is unlikely to occur this year, with a duration of four to six weeks anticipated.
A prevention of future deaths report has already been issued to Ice Hockey UK and the English Ice Hockey Association concerning mandatory neck guards, which became compulsory in the Elite League on 1 January 2024. A further pre-inquest review is scheduled for 29 October.