Major Update in Neck-Slice Hockey Death Case of Adam Johnson

A year and a half after the death of hockey player Adam Johnson, whose neck was sliced by the skate blade of an opposing player, British prosecutors have confirmed that Matt Petgrave will not face any criminal charges in the matter.

Canadian hockey player Matt Petgrave, who was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the death of former NHL and Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson in 2023, will not face criminal charges, prosecutors have confirmed.

🔗 https://t.co/JG4zZ3DpiB pic.twitter.com/RAmOBCd59B
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 29, 2025

Petgrave, 32, was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter a month after the October 23rd incident. The video of the horrific tragedy (warning: graphic content) shows Petgrave's skate kicking up high in the air after a near collision with another player and then striking Johnson in the throat. Johnson, 29, died later in the hospital.

Independent prosecution service decides against seeking conviction of Matt Petgrave

“Following a thorough police investigation and a comprehensive review of all the evidence by the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service)," said Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor Michael Quinn, "we have concluded that there is not a realistic prospect of conviction for any criminal offense and so there will not be a prosecution. Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Adam Johnson.”

“Extensive enquiries, including reviewing footage, interviewing witnesses and consulting with highly-specialized experts from North America, were carried out,” said a statement from South Yorkshire Police.

Johnson, from Minnesota, played 13 games in the NHL in parts of two seasons for the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2019. He is survived by his fiancée.