Who is Matt Petgrave, The Killer of Ice Hockey Player Adam Johnson

 

Hockey player arrested from Hibbing, Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS — The U.K. authorities revealed on Tuesday that an arrest has been executed in connection with the demise of Adam Johnson, a 29-year-old hockey player hailing from Hibbing, Minnesota.

Although the officials have refrained from confirming the suspect's identity, it has been disclosed that hockey player Matt Petgrave was the skater responsible for the fatal injury to Adam Johnson's neck during a game last month.

Adam Johnson Hockey Accident 

The tragic incident involving hockey player Adam Johnson has sent shockwaves through the sports community. Officials in the U.K. announced an arrest in connection with the death of the 29-year-old from Hibbing, Minnesota. While the suspect's identity remains unconfirmed, it has been disclosed that fellow hockey player Matt Petgrave was involved in the accident, with his skate causing a fatal injury to Johnson's neck during a game last month. 

Petgrave, a 31-year-old member of the Sheffield Steelers, received applause during the team's recent game, the first at home since Johnson's passing. Social media captured the poignant standing ovation. Johnson's teammate, Westin Michaud, defended Petgrave, asserting that the incident was unintentional. The hockey community mourns the loss of Johnson, emphasizing the inherent risks in the sport, even as questions surrounding the circumstances persist.

Hockey player arrested from Hibbing, Minnesota

So, who is Matt Petgrave?

As per the NHL, Petgrave, aged 31, has been a part of the Sheffield Steelers for two seasons. The Sheffield Steelers are a professional hockey team situated in Sheffield, England.

According to the Steelers, Petgrave received applause during the team's game on Sunday night against the Coventry Blaze. This marked the first home game for the Steelers since Johnson's tragic death.

Videos circulating on social media captured the poignant standing ovation. Notably, Petgrave did not participate in the game.

22nd minute… Standing ovation for Sheffield Steelers defenceman Matt Petgrave, who’s not on the ice tonight.

Over 8,000 fans all on their feet to show their support & love for Petgrave. pic.twitter.com/aNYIzh8Q2Z

— Peter Spencer (@_PeterSpencer) November 12, 2023

In the aftermath of the fatal incident, Johnson's teammate, Westin Michaud, took to social media to defend Petgrave.

"We wholeheartedly stand with Matt Petgrave. The hate that Matt is receiving is terrible and completely uncalled for. I was at ice level on the bench closest to the accident; I saw both players moving fast," Michaud wrote on X. "It's clear to me his actions were unintentional, and anyone suggesting otherwise is mistaken."

Why did hockey player killed by Matt Petgrave 

There is no information or evidence to suggest that Matt Petgrave intentionally killed the hockey player Adam Johnson. The incident appears to be a tragic accident that occurred during a game. While details about the specific circumstances may vary, it has been reported that Matt Petgrave's skate accidentally caused a fatal injury to Adam Johnson's neck. Johnson's teammate, Westin Michaud, has publicly defended Petgrave, stating that the actions were unintentional, and any suggestions otherwise are mistaken.

Investigations into such incidents are typically carried out by sports authorities and, if necessary, law enforcement to determine the exact sequence of events and whether any rules or regulations were violated. It's important to await official statements and investigations before drawing conclusions about the nature of the incident.

HOCKEY: JUL 26 3ICE 

BOSTON, MA - JULY 26: Team Carbonneau defenseman Matt Petgrave (22) skates with the puck during a 3ICE week 5 game between Team Patrick and Team Carbonneau on July 26, 2023, at Agganis Arena in Boston, MA.

ERICA DENHOFF/ICON SPORTSWIRE VIA GETTY IMAGES

Petgrave, undrafted, entered the Ontario Hockey League in 2009. His career has spanned various leagues, including USports, the East Coast Hockey League in New Jersey, the American Hockey League, and more.

Originally from Toronto, in the Canadian province of Ontario, Petgrave continues to navigate the complexities of his hockey career amidst the current circumstances.