NHL referee Mitch Dunning was taken off the ice on a stretcher during a game on Monday involving the Philadelphia Flyers and Colorado Avalanche. The incident occurred in the first period when Dunning collided with Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson, who was skating at a high speed near the offensive zone blue line.

During the play, Dunning was skating backward when the unexpected collision caused him to fall, resulting in his immediate removal from the game. Medical personnel attended to him promptly, and he was transported to a hospital as a precautionary measure.

According to a statement from NHL Public Relations, Dunning was reported to be communicative and is able to move all extremities. The league and fans are hopeful for a swift recovery for the official.