Arrest made over death of ice hockey player

Adam Johnson's neck was cut during a match

Adam Johnson died while playing for Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers, when he suffered was what described as a "freak accident" at the time.

South Yorkshire Police released a statement on Tuesday which read:

South Yorkshire Police said: "Detectives have today (Tuesday 14 November) arrested a man on suspicion of manslaughter. He remains in police custody at this time.

"On Saturday 28 October, Adam, aged 29, was seriously injured during a game between Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers and was sadly later pronounced deceased in hospital. A post-mortem examination confirmed he died as a result of a fatal neck injury."

Detective Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall said: "Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances.

"We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our enquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation.

"Adam's death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world. We know these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation which could hinder this process. Our thoughts remain with all affected by this devastating incident as enquiries continue."

Around 8,000 spectators were present at the game and they were all told to leave the stadium following the “major medical emergency”.

Witnesses also said that they saw the Panthers player’s girlfriend run onto the ice and begin to pray for him.

Police have not named the man arrested.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow...