We just witnessed a concerning scene live from Philadelphia involving official Mitch Dunning.

He was unfortunately stretchered off the ice following a collision with defenseman Josh Manson.

The incident occurred during the game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Philadelphia Flyers.

Concerning scene during the Avalanche vs. Flyers game

Here are some of the images.

«Wishing a speedy recovery to Mitch Dunning, the 32-year-old referee who had to be stretchered off the ice in Philadelphia after a collision with Josh Manson. He left on a stretcher.»

The entire hockey world is holding its breath, and we want to send positive thoughts to Mitch Dunning.

«Ashlyn Sullivan reports that referee Mitch Dunning is suffering from a severe back injury and is being transported to the hospital. Let’s pray for him.»

These are always difficult images to watch, and it’s truly unfortunate.

«Josh Manson approaches and gives a reassuring tap to referee Mitch Dunning as he is stretchered off the ice.

Manson collided with Dunning, seemingly because neither saw the other.»

– Jesse Montano

This is a beautiful display of sportsmanship, but of course, the most important thing is truly the health of official Dunning.

For them to already mention a “severe back injury,” it’s clearly serious.

Prayers to Mitch and speedy recovery!

UPDATE

Mitch Dunning is fully communicative and can move all his extremities after the scary collision. He has been taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons.

More details will follow.