In a recent viral video, an astonishing event unfolded during a game in Sweden's 5th Tier Hockey League. A defenseman, mistaking the referee for an opposing player, delivered a massive hit that resulted in the referee sustaining a broken arm. This unusual incident occurred as the defenseman pursued a puck, only to collide with the referee who was mistakenly in his path.
The impact of the collision was so severe that the referee was left injured on the ice, requiring assistance to be taken to the hospital. It was later confirmed that the referee had suffered a broken arm. Notably, no penalty was called during the play.
Post-game, the player involved addressed allegations that the hit was deliberate. He maintained that it was purely accidental, a result of his attempt to block an opponent, with the referee unfortunately caught in the middle. However, the player did note that the referee had been obstructively present throughout the game.