Mike Hammond is killed in a car accident in Canada
British ice hockey player Mike Hammond has tragically died in a car accident in Canada.
The Nottingham Panthers confirmed that their 33-year-old star had passed away late on Wednesday night. It is understood his car was the only vehicle involved.
Hammond, who played for Great Britain at the 2019 IIHF World Championship and the 2021 IIHF World Championship, began his career in 2015 and went on to play for nine ice hockey teams before joining the Nottingham Panthers in August 2022.
‘The Nottingham Panthers are devastated to report that Mike Hammond, who played for the club last season, has passed away in a car crash,’ the Elite Ice Hockey League side revealed.
‘Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and team-mates. Rest in peace Hammy – you will never be forgotten.’
Hammond, whose father Pete passed away five years ago, is survived by his mother Janice and brother Steve.
His brother posted to Facebook on Thursday: ‘I’m lost for words, still trying to comprehend what’s happened. You will be greatly missed love you brother.’
Hammond, a Canadian by birth who went on to represent Great Britain with dual nationality, was visiting his homeland with friends before the tragic incident.
A woman close to Hammond shared on Facebook that the ice hockey star was ‘excited to be going home’ to visit his mother, dog and brother’s new-born child.
Another friend, who shared the final photograph taken of Hammond on Instagram, said: ‘Words cannot describe how much you will be missed Mikey. I am so lucky to have shared such a great day at the lake with you yesterday trading laughs and stories. Rest in peace my brother.’