Former ice hockey player Janne Puhakka suspected murder in Henttaala, Espoo

Details have emerged regarding the suspected murder of former ice hockey player Janne Puhakka, which took place in Henttaala, Espoo, on Sunday. Puhakka was 29 years old at the time of his death. Authorities were alerted to the incident through an emergency call around 8 PM, and police later reported that Puhakka had been shot in a private residence. The specifics of the weapon and the number of shots fired have yet to be disclosed.

Puhakka lived in a townhouse with his partner, 66-year-old Norwegian veterinarian Rolf Nordmo. The police initially classified the case as a homicide but revealed on Monday afternoon that they now suspect Nordmo of murder, noting that the act appeared to be premeditated and particularly brutal, according to lead investigator Matti Högman.

As of now, there are no indications of prior violence in Puhakka and Nordmo’s relationship. Police have developed a motive, but they have not shared details with the media. Högman described the case as sad but noted that the investigation is relatively straightforward, with the suspected perpetrator detained and the weapon in police custody.

The incident has led to the cancellation of the finale of the reality show “Petolliset,” in which Puhakka was competing. The show’s producers expressed shock over the news.

Puhakka was known for being the first ice hockey player in Finland’s SM-liiga to publicly come out as homosexual, a revelation he made in 2019. He played for teams including the Espoo Blues and had a career that spanned various leagues, including a stint in France.

Many public figures, including former Prime Minister Sanna Marin, have expressed their condolences on social media, and the case has also garnered significant attention in Norway.