Janne Puhakka, Finland’s first openly gay ice hockey player, was tragically found dead at his home in Espoo on Sunday evening, October 13, following a suspected shooting. Puhakka, 29, shared the home with his partner, Rolf Nordmo, 65, who has been arrested in connection with the incident.
Although police have not officially confirmed the identities of the suspect and the victim, the lead investigator, Matti Högman, stated that they believe the incident was a deliberate act. "The suspect and the victim knew each other. That much I can say," Högman shared with the media, adding that they suspect premeditation in the killing.
Tributes have been pouring in for Puhakka, including a message from former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin, who shared a photo of the former ice hockey player with a broken heart emoji.
The police released a statement confirming that the Western Uusimaa Police are investigating the case as a homicide. They responded to an emergency call at around 8 p.m. on Sunday, where they found Puhakka deceased. A 65-year-old man was arrested at the scene, suspected of using a firearm in the killing.
"The suspect came out of the apartment on his own, and the arrest proceeded as planned," the police stated. They emphasized that there was no immediate danger to bystanders and that no other individuals were involved.
The investigation, currently labeled as manslaughter, may evolve as more information is uncovered. Authorities are still working to determine the motive behind the act, with further updates expected as the inquiry progresses.
Puhakka’s death has sent shockwaves through the sports community and beyond, with many remembering him as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in ice hockey.
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