Ice hockey star Adam Johnson’s mother has shared a heartbreaking post in the wake of her son’s death.
Nottingham Panthers’ Johnson died in a “freak accident” after he was slashed in the neck during a game against Sheffield Steelers.
The encounter at Sheffield Arena was abandoned shortly after the incident, with more than 8,000 fans all asked to leave in the aftermath.
Sharing two photos of herself with Johnson in a Facebook post, the player’s mother, Kari Johnson, has since said: "I lost half of my heart today. Love you always Munch".
According to Sky Sports News, players from both sides formed a protective ring around Johnson as he received treatment on the ice before screens were put up.
Moreover, South Yorkshire Police were called to the arena at about 8.25pm on Saturday night to reports a player had been seriously injured. Officers remained on the scene into the following day.
In a statement, Nottingham Panthers said: "Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.
"The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.
"Everyone at the club including players, staff, management, and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing."
Before joining Nottingham Panthers, Johnson played in Pennsylvania for the Pittsburgh Penguins and in Sweden for the Malmo Redhawks, while he has also plied his trade in Canada for Ontario and in Germany for Augsburger Panther.
Pittsburgh Penguins said it joined "the entire hockey world in mourning the loss of Adam Johnson, whose life tragically ended far too soon.
"We offer our deepest condolences to Adam's family and friends, as well as all of Adam's past and present teammates and coaches. Adam will always be a part of the Penguins family. It was our honour to watch him fulfil his dream of playing in the National Hockey League.”
Featured Image Credit: Getty/Kari Johnson via FacebookTopics: Ice Hockey
Chris Byfield