Niamh Shackleton
No criminal charges will be brought against a professional ice hockey player following the death of Adam Johnson during a match between The Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers in October 2023, the Crown Prosecution Service said.
Adam Johnson, a 29-year-old American sports star, died after his neck was slashed by a fellow hockey player's skate. He died in hospital from his injuries.
Johnson's tragic passing sparked an investigation, with one man being arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. The individual was later bailed by the South Yorkshire Police in the UK.
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Police said in a statement at the time: "Our investigation is ongoing, and our thoughts remain with Adam's family.
"If there are any developments in the investigation ahead of the new bail expiry date, these will be issued proactively on the South Yorkshire Police website."
Now, 18 months on from Johnson's death, the Crown Prosecution Service has announced that it is not pressing charges.
Michael Quinn, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, said in a statement issued today (April 29): "This was a shocking and deeply upsetting incident.
"The CPS and South Yorkshire Police have worked closely together to determine whether any criminal charges should be brought against the other ice hockey player involved."
Quinn continued: "Following a thorough police investigation and a comprehensive review of all the evidence by the CPS, we have concluded that there is not a realistic prospect of conviction for any criminal offence and so there will not be a prosecution.
"Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Adam Johnson."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].