Police in England investigating death of former Penguins player

Adam Johnson was honored before Monday night's game in Pittsburgh
 Members of the Anaheim Ducks and the Pittsburgh Penguins stand at center ice for a moment of silence at the PPG Paints Arena to honor former Penguin forward Adam Johnson (on scoreboard) who was tragically killed in a hockey related accident in Europe.
Members of the Anaheim Ducks and the Pittsburgh Penguins stand at center ice for a moment of silence at the PPG Paints Arena to honor former Penguin forward Adam Johnson (on scoreboard) who was tragically killed in a hockey related accident in Europe. Photo credit © Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

An investigation is underway following the death of a former Penguins player who died while playing in England.

Adam Johnson died after his neck was slashed by a skate.

His team the Nottingham Panthers called it a freak accident.

South Yorkshire Police released a statement on Monday saying, “Our officers remain at the scene carrying out enquiries and our investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing.”

Police added, “We would encourage the public to avoid speculation regarding the incident while we continue our enquiries.”

Johnson appeared in 13 NHL games with the Pens from 2018 through 2020.

The Penguins released the following statement, following Johnson’s death:

“The Pittsburgh Penguins join the entire hockey world in mourning the loss of Adam Johnson, whose life was 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 honor to watch him fulfill his dream of playing in the National Hockey League.”

Johnson has one goal and three assists in his 13 games with Pittsburgh.

The Penguins honored Johnson before the game against the Ducks Monday.

Players from both teams formed a circle around center ice for a moment of silence.

Featured Image Photo Credit: © Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports