No criminal charges will be brought against Matt Petgrave, the Canadian hockey player involved in a tragic on-ice accident that led to the death of fellow player Adam Johnson.
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed Petgrave would not face charges on Tuesday, April 29, with Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor Michael Quinn saying, “there is not a realistic prospect of conviction for any criminal offense.”
“This was a shocking and deeply upsetting incident,” Quinn said. “The CPS and South Yorkshire Police have worked closely together to determine whether any criminal charges should be brought against the other ice hockey player involved… Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Adam Johnson.”
Johnson, a former NHL player who was continuing his career in England with the Nottingham Panthers, died after being cut in the neck by a skate during a game against the Sheffield Steelers on Oct. 28. At the time, the Panthers organization labeled the incident a “freak accident.”
Petgrave was the other player involved, and he was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter by the South Yorkshire Police several weeks later. (As is often customary in the U.K., Petgrave was never identified by the police even after his arrest.) Petgrave was released on bail as the SYP carried out its investigation, with the police sending their case to the CPS in May 2024.
“Following Adam’s tragic death, we have worked tirelessly to fully investigate the unprecedented circumstances that took place at the Utilia Arena in October 2023,” SYP Detective Chief Inspector Benjamin Wood said in a statement. “Our investigation has involved complex consultations with specialist experts from North America, as well as working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service. While our investigation has now concluded, our thoughts remain wholeheartedly with Adam’s family, and everyone who has been affected by this devastating tragedy.”
As for Petgrave, his bail was extended eight times — most recently in February — as the investigation into Johnson’s death continued. Last December, Petgrave appeared to launch a crowdfunding campaign to help cover his legal costs, especially because, as he said, he had to remain in the U.K. during the investigation and could not work.
“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,” Petgrave wrote. “Any remaining funds will be donated to initiatives that promote safety in hockey.”
Lawyers for Petgrave listed on the crowdfunding page did not immediately return Rolling Stone’s request for comment.
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