In a shocking incident during Friday’s football match between Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland, two men were arrested by South Yorkshire Police after allegedly mocking a six-year-old cancer victim, Bradley Lowery, who passed away in 2017.
The arrest, made on Saturday evening, was in connection with potential public order offences. Disturbing images circulated online depict Sheffield Wednesday fans holding up a phone to Sunderland supporters, displaying a picture of Bradley. South Yorkshire Police stated that the arrested men, aged 31 and 27, were reported to have committed an act outraging public decency.
“We are in the early stages of our investigation and continue to urge anyone who believes they have information that can assist to get in touch online, via live chat, or by calling 101,” South Yorkshire Police stated on their website.
The Bradley Lowery Foundation, representing the family of the deceased child, expressed deep distress over the incident. The Foundation acknowledged Sheffield Wednesday’s quick condemnation and expressed gratitude for the broader football community’s ongoing support.
Sheffield Wednesday issued a statement, describing the images as “deplorable” and expressing their condemnation of the behavior. The football club assured collaboration with South Yorkshire Police in the investigation, apologising for the distress caused to Bradley’s family and friends.
The incident has ignited outrage among football fans, highlighting the need for vigilance against inappropriate behavior and the impact it can have on grieving families. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
