People attend a memorial for Nottingham Panthers' ice hockey player Adam Johnson at the Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham. Adam Johnson died after an accident during a Challenge Cup match with Sheffield Steelers. PA Images/Alamy Images

Nottingham Panthers to retire Adam Johnson's number later this season

Originally posted on Blade of Steel
By Brett Thomas Wills | Last updated Sep 18, 2024 9:22 AM ET

The Nottingham Panthers of the EIHL have announced that they will retire No. 47, the number Adam Johnson wore before his tragic passing.

After the tragic passing of Adam Johnson during an EIHL game while playing as a member of the Nottingham Panthers, the team has announced that they will be retiring his No. 47 before the Dec. 14 game against the Fife Flyers.

Johnson's life was tragically cut short when the skate of opponent Matt Petgrave came up and sliced his neck. While medical personnel jumped into action, Johnson's life could not be saved. At the time of Johnson's passing, Petgrave appeared set to face serious consequences. However, he has been released from custody while officials investigate what led to Johnson's death and if charges that were initially filed would hold up in court.

Over a year later, Johnson's is still talked about and in fact, due to the events of that day, leagues across the world have begun to institute mandatory neck protection with the hopes that it would not happen again to anyone.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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