The Belfast Giants have postponed Sunday night's scheduled home game following the death of Nottingham Panthers' player Adam Johnson.
The 29-year-old, originally from Minnesota in the US, died after appearing to suffer a catastrophic cut to his neck from a skate blade during his side's game against Sheffield Steelers on Saturday night.
Witnesses described the accident as horrific leaving many of the 8,000 fans in tears as the match was abandoned.
Johnson’s team confirmed his death on Sunday morning.
In a statement, the team said: “The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night.
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“The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam’s family, his partner, and all his friends at this extremely difficult time.
“Everyone at the club including players, staff, management and ownership are heartbroken.”
The club described Johnson, “our number 47”, as “not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him.”
Witnesses described the incident which led to Johnson’s death as a freak clash.
Guardian journalist Christian Bennett, who was at the match, said: “Two players blindsided each other, just bumped into each other.
“The Sheffield player clearly got knocked off his feet and his skate when up.”
Johnson signed for the Panthers in August after a career which has included spells playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Malmö Redhawks in Sweden and Augsburger Panther in Germany.
A statement from the Belfast Giants said: "Everyone at the Belfast Giants is devastated to hear of the passing of Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson following a tragic accident which took place during Saturday’s game between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Adam’s family, friends, and teammates, in addition to the wider EIHL community at this sad time."
