NHL ref Mitch Dunning injured in on-ice collision
Philadelphia – NHL Referee Mitch Dunning Injured in Collision with Avalanche Player
NHL referee Mitch Dunning is in stable condition and responsive after a frightening collision with Colorado defenseman Josh Manson during Monday night’s game in Philadelphia.
Following the incident, Dunning was taken to a nearby hospital as a precautionary measure, with all neurological tests showing normal results.
The collision occurred early in the first period when Manson collided with Dunning, who was left lying on the ice for several minutes. Despite the scary moment, Dunning demonstrated movement in his extremities and even interacted with Manson before medical personnel arrived.
The game was temporarily halted as trainers and medical staff attended to Dunning on the ice.
Dunning, a former professional hockey defenseman with experience in the OHL, transitioned to officiating and achieved full-time NHL status in 2022.
Despite the unfortunate incident, the game resumed with one referee and two linespersons overseeing the action.