Pro Hockey player killed by skate: Accident or Intentional?

[ZaydanVeo]

There is a very heated debate going on in regards to the death of 29 year old former NHL player Adam Johnson, who died when his neck was sliced open due to an opposing player raising his skate while coming towards him. At first, I wanted to believe it was a freak accident, but I have come to the conclusion that this was an intentional act.
I am not saying Petgrove expected to kill him or cause serious bodily injury. However, Petgrove was a very dirty player, and had done this numerous times throughout his career, and was often suspended for dirty plays. Regardless, I do not believe he should be sent to prison for his actions. Former NHL players have also stated that they believe the move was intentionally done.
I will not link to the actual footage, since it is very upsetting and far too graphic. However, there is a video of Petgrove doing something similar in his junior hockey career (there is not many videos of Petgrove, as he never played in the NHL). However, I will old video, and let the viewer decide.

 

[mosararty]

Jumping in on this older post, but I wanted to add that for me it comes down to intent to injure versus intent to kill. Petgrove clearly meant to kick him, but a freak skate cut like that is hard to predict. Manslaughter feels right, but the criminal charge should match the reckless act, not the tragic outcome.

 

[Azzazekon]

I think the overwhelming consensus on intent is pretty clear, but I agree it was a reckless move rather than murder. For coaches looking to discuss plays like this with a team, this url is a solid portable board for explaining positioning and safety on the ice.