The UK’s Crown Prosecution Service has decided not to press charges against Matt Petgrave, the Sheffield Steelers player involved in the fatal collision with Nottingham Panthers’ Adam Johnson during an English league game on October 28, 2023.
A Tragic Accident or a Criminal Act?
Adam Johnson died after being hit in the neck by Petgrave’s skate blade. The incident sparked a police investigation and public outcry.
Petgrave was arrested in November 2023 on suspicion of manslaughter and spent 17 months on remand.
The decision not to prosecute was based on the lack of realistic prospects for a successful conviction.
Reactions Pour In
The news was met with mixed reactions.
- Michael Quinn, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, said the incident was “shocking and deeply disturbing.”
- The Crown Prosecution Service and South Yorkshire Police worked together to determine whether to bring charges.
- The thoughts of the authorities remain with Adam Johnson’s family and friends.
Petgrave maintained that the incident was a “tragic accident.”
The collision was witnessed by spectators, some of whom were left in tears or fainted in the stands.
Controversy in the NHL
The decision was not well received in the NHL.
Chris Therien, a former NHL player, believes Petgrave’s actions were intentional, describing the hit as a “kung-fu kick.”
The incident has raised questions about player safety and the consequences of on-ice actions.