Adam Johnson's family speaks out after arrest of man in connection to gruesome skate blade death

The family of hockey player Adam Johnson who was killed on the ice by an opposing player's skate blade has spoken out for the first time following news that a man has been taken into custody in the United Kingdom on suspicion of manslaughter in connection to Johnson's death.

While South Yorkshire Police did not identify the man, it is widely believed to be Matt Petgrave, the Sheffield Steelers player whose skate blade sliced Johnson's neck.

In an interview with the Mirror, Johnson's aunt, Kari, said the family was pleased that someone had been arrested.

"We're just going to have to let it play out and see what happens," she said. "Whatever they'd decided, I would have had to live with it. But I'm just glad they are being diligent with doing what they're supposed to be doing."

According to the South Yorkshire Police, no charges have officially been filed. 

"Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances," Detective Chief Superintendent Becs Horsfall said.

"We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our enquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation."

Horsfall noted that Johnson's death "has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world."

"We know these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation which could hinder this process. Our thoughts remain with all affected by this devastating incident as enquiries continue."

Johnson, who had a brief stint in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins before transferring to the Nottingham Panthers of the UK's Elite Ice Hockey League in August, was hit by Matt Petgrave, a Sheffield Steelers player, with his skate blade in the neck during a game on October 28. He died shortly after.

The Minnesota native was laid to rest in his hometown of Hibbing earlier this month. In his obituary, he was described as someone who "had a quiet confidence about him and was never boastful."

"He was never looking to be the center of attention, but rather he preferred to listen to others and do what he could to make them feel important," the obituary continued. "He was many things to many people, but to those who were lucky enough to be loved by Adam knew he was thoughtful, patient and genuinely authentic. He loved his fiancée, family, and friends above all else. His loving and quiet demeanor will be eternally missed."