British senior coroner Tanyka Rawden, who examined the tragic death of former NHL player Adam Johnson, has expressed serious concerns about the potential for future fatalities if neck guards are not made mandatory in hockey.
"During the course of the investigation, my inquiries revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion, there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances, it is my statutory duty to report to you," she said in the Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) Report addressed to Ice Hockey U.K. and the English Ice Hockey Association.
The concerns outlined in the report focus on the absence of a mandate for hockey players aged 18 and above to wear neck protection despite the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) recommending the use of neck guards.
"In due course, the inquest will consider whether the use of a neck guard or protector could have prevented Mr Johnson's death," said the coroner.
"At this stage in my investigation, however, I am sufficiently concerned that deaths may occur in the future if neckguards or protectors are not worn."
The report now demands a response from the governing bodies within 56 days, urging them to propose measures to prevent such incidents.
"Your response must contain details of action taken or proposed to be taken, setting out the timetable for action. Otherwise, you must explain why no action is proposed," the report said.
Despite this, the Elite Ice Hockey League, where Johnson played under the Nottingham Panthers, has chosen not to make neck guards mandatory, opting instead to "strongly encourage" players and officials to use them. The English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) announced that neck guards would be compulsory from 2024, but the Elite League operates independently.
Tribute to Johnson
Johnson played 13 games in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 seasons. His hockey journey extended to Europe, where he showcased his skills at the Malmö Redhawks, Augsburger Panther and the Nottingham Panthers.
Rawden initiated the inquest into Johnson's tragic death following a fatal incident on October 28, where Johnson was struck in the neck by an opposing team member's skate. The incident occurred at Utilita Arena before 8,000 spectators.
On Saturday, Nottingham's Motorpoint Arena witnessed a tribute from hockey fans to Johnson. Tearful supporters signed books of condolence and walked past a photo of the 29-year-old alongside a shirt bearing his name and team number, 47. The ice, usually reserved for sporting clashes, was carpeted to facilitate fans in paying their respects to the departed player.
In commemoration of Johnson, the Nottingham Panthers have launched the "Love for Hibbing and Hockey Memorial Fund" to support local charities selected by his family in their hometown of Hibbing, Minnesota. The fund has garnered substantial support, raising over $67,000 last week.
In addition, a specially designed jersey in memory of Johnson has witnessed a surge in demand, surpassing the highest levels ever seen for a hockey jersey in the U.K. The club has committed to donating the profits from the jersey sales to the fundraiser.