By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2024-12-16 12:31:51 | Updated at 2024-12-16 14:44:36
2 hours ago
An ice hockey star under police investigation for the death of another player during a match has revealed details of his ongoing ordeal.
Matthew Petgrave, 32, has put out a public plea for help to cover his mounting legal fees and named himself as the man facing a criminal investigation for manslaughter.
He remains on police bail more than a year after the tragic death of Adam Johnson, 29, who was killed when an opponent's skate blade made contact with his neck during a match between arch rivals Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers.
A video of the incident, which happened in front of 8,000 fans at Sheffield's Utilita Arena, circulated worldwide on social media.
Petgrave has not been named in the media as the player facing potential criminal charges since police arrested him.
But he has now posted a detailed statement on a 'crowd justice' website in a bid to raise thousands of pounds to pay for his legal fees.
Under the headline 'assistance needed for legal costs regarding allegation of manslaughter', he has written that he is 'seeking help to cover some of my legal costs following an ice hockey accident in 2023.'
The Canadian revealed his situation had taken a turn for the worse as he is currently unable to earn a living as an ice hockey player as his visa has run out.
Matthew Petgrave remains on police bail more than a year after the tragic death of Adam Johnson, 29
Adam Johnson suffered the horrific injury while playing for the Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers on October 28, 2023
In addition, his insurance cover has stopped – prompting the move to seek public help to cover legal costs.
Petgrave wrote: 'My name is Matthew Petgrave, and I've been a professional ice hockey player for the past seven years, most recently with the EIHL's Sheffield Steelers. Hockey has been my lifelong passion, and I consider it a great privilege to have built a career in the sport.'
He continued: 'On October 28, 2023, I was involved in a tragic accident that resulted in the passing of fellow ice hockey player Adam Johnson.
'There is an ongoing police investigation and the legal process has been long and challenging.'
'The player then thanked all those who had supported him over the past year.
'I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported me, including my teammates, fellow players, and league personnel, who have stood by me from the beginning and continue to do so.
'Your support has been invaluable to me and my family during this incredibly difficult time.
'Initially, I had the benefit of Insurance Cover, but through no fault of my own, this has been halted.
Petgrave has put out a public plea for help to cover his mounting legal fees and named himself as the man facing a criminal investigation for manslaughter
The American athlete's death stunned ice hockey fans across the world. His number '47' jersey has since been retired by his former team, in tribute (pictured is a fan holding his shirt)
Nottingham Panthers later retired Adam Johnson's No 47 jersey following his death
'Additionally, the time and costs involved in the legal investigation and potential court proceedings are difficult for me to cover on a privately funded basis.
'This is especially challenging because my UK Visa has expired, preventing me from working as a professional ice hockey player while I continue to need legal assistance.
'I am seeking help to cover some of my legal costs whilst I am subject to Police bail, as well as additional costs if the matter proceeds to criminal court. Any remaining funds will be donated to initiatives that promote safety in hockey.'
South Yorkshire Police have said that a man remains on bail as inquiries continue into the death of Adam Johnson.
Within days of the tragic incident coroner Tanyka Rawden called for neck guards to be made compulsory in ice hockey.
The Elite Ice Hockey League in the UK 'strongly encourages' players to wear neck guards but has not made them mandatory.
Johnson, an American, played in the National Hockey League for the Pittsburgh Penguins before moving to be a star with the Nottingham Panthers.
