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By Billie Schwab Dunn
Pop Culture and Entertainment Reporter
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British police are continuing to review and analyze footage of the ice hockey midgame collision that led to the tragic death of player Adam Johnson.
While playing for British hockey team the Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield on Saturday, Johnson, 29, fell to the ice following a hit in the 35th minute. He suffered a fatal neck injury from a skate worn by Sheffield Steelers player Matt Petgrave, 31, with the Panthers announcing his death in the early hours of Sunday.
As news of Johnson's tragic passing circulated, a number of social media users zeroed in on footage from the seconds surrounding the moment of injury. The clip showed the collision with Petgrave before he fell. While Johnson was seen getting up and attempting to skate, he quickly collapsed and he was then rushed to the hospital.
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The clip of the collision has been scrutinized online, resulting in some fans questioning the height of Petgrave's skates as he fell to the ground alongside Johnson, noting how his skate was in the air. Others questioned whether Petgrave had planned to kick Johnson by raising his leg so high, but they didn't offer any proof.
However, other hockey fans have condemned any speculation around the incident, labeling it a "freak accident" and said they supported Petgrave during what must be a difficult time for him.
South Yorkshire Police said it had been studying footage of the incident.
A spokesperson said on Tuesday: "Since Saturday, detectives have been carrying out a range of inquiries including reviewing footage, talking to witnesses and seeking the advice and support of highly specialized experts to seek to understand the circumstances surrounding what happened.
"We have also been working closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our investigation. As with all unexpected and sudden deaths, it is standard practice for police to investigate the circumstances fully and feed back our findings to HM Coroner.
"Our officers have now left the scene, however due to the complex nature of this tragic and unprecedented incident, it is likely the wider investigation will take some time. We continue to encourage the public to avoid speculation, including on social media, while we continue our inquiries and will provide updates when appropriate.
"Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of all those affected."
Newsweek reached out to the Nottingham Panthers and the Sheffield Steelers for comment via email on Wednesday.
On Monday, the sport's governing body in England and Wales, the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA), said it was making neck guards mandatory for all on-ice activities from January 1.
Due to anticipated supply issues, the EIHA didn't make the neck guards mandatory with immediate effect, but made a "strong recommendation" that players at all levels begin wearing one.
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