A Liverpool fan has tragically died after being struck by a vehicle in Milan, just hours before the team’s Champions League match against AC Milan. The incident occurred around 1am on Monday night, when the 51-year-old supporter, who had reportedly just arrived from Manchester, was attempting to cross the A4 motorway near the Orio al Serio airport in Bergamo.
Italian news outlets Il Corriere della Sera and La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that the fan was on his way to the NH Hotel after landing in Italy shortly before midnight. He had crossed three lanes of the motorway before being hit by an SUV, resulting in fatal injuries. In a heartbreaking detail, authorities found a ticket to Liverpool’s Champions League fixture against Milan, scheduled for Tuesday night, along with the fan’s passport in his possession at the time of the accident.
Eyewitnesses also reported seeing a father and son with the victim moments before the tragedy, though the pair chose not to cross the motorway. The two individuals have since been identified by Italian authorities, who are working to locate them for questioning. Police are investigating whether the fan may have been in a “psychophysical altered state” at the time, potentially influencing his actions.
The Liverpool fan’s death comes just hours before the much-anticipated Champions League match between the Reds and Milan at the iconic San Siro Stadium. The game will be the fifth time the two clubs have faced off in the competition, with their most famous encounter being the 2005 final in Istanbul, where Liverpool staged an incredible comeback from 3-0 down to win on penalties.
The incident has cast a shadow over the fixture, with Liverpool supporters mourning the loss of one of their own. Authorities in Milan are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fan’s death, while the Liverpool team prepares for their Champions League opener in difficult emotional circumstances.
Police Search for Witnesses
As the investigation continues, Italian police are appealing for more witnesses and have not ruled out filing a complaint against the father and son for failing to assist the victim. The case has also raised concerns about the fan’s state at the time of the incident, with authorities looking into whether alcohol or other substances may have played a role.
The tragedy has brought an additional layer of grief to what should have been a night of football celebration, as Liverpool seeks to kick off their Champions League campaign with a win against the Serie A giants.
