“No Justice for Adam Johnson?” – Hockey World Reacts as Manslaughter Charges Dropped After Tragic On-Ice Death
Over a year after the heartbreaking death of former NHL player Adam Johnson, a decision from the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has officially ended the legal battle—without a single charge being filed.
Johnson, 29, was fatally injured on October 28, 2023, during a UK Elite Ice Hockey League match between the Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers. In a moment that shook the entire sports world, Johnson’s neck was accidentally sliced by the skate of opposing player Matt Petgrave—a tragic event that played out in front of horrified spectators.
Since then, fans, teammates, and Johnson’s family have waited anxiously for answers.
Who Was Held Responsible?
Petgrave, the player involved in the fatal collision, was arrested in November 2023 on suspicion of manslaughter. Though never officially named by authorities, he confirmed his identity while launching a crowdfunding campaign to support legal costs, revealing the intense pressure and public scrutiny he was under.
This week, the CPS confirmed it would not pursue criminal charges due to “insufficient likelihood of conviction.”
“This was a shocking and deeply upsetting incident,” said Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor Michael Quinn. “After carefully reviewing all the evidence, we’ve concluded that no criminal offence can be proven. Our thoughts remain with Adam Johnson’s loved ones.”
While the decision brings legal closure, the Victims’ Right to Review scheme means the case could be reconsidered if new evidence or appeals are submitted.
More Than a Tragedy – A Global Hockey Wake-Up Call
Adam Johnson’s death was not just a loss—it became a turning point for ice hockey safety around the globe. In the weeks that followed, discussions exploded around the lack of neck protection in professional hockey.
Several leagues, including USA Hockey and the American Hockey League, implemented new safety guidelines. USA Hockey has now made neck laceration protection mandatory for all players under 18—a direct response to Johnson’s death.
Although the NHL has yet to mandate neck protection, more players have started wearing neck guards voluntarily—many citing Johnson’s name as the reason.
No Charges, But a Legacy That Will Save Lives
For many, the decision not to prosecute raises tough questions about accountability in sports. Was this truly just an accident? Could more have been done to protect Johnson—or to ensure this never happens again?
While legal justice may never come, Adam Johnson’s legacy is now seen in every new neck guard strapped on by a young player, every safety regulation rewritten, and every game played with heightened awareness.
