72-year-old Brighton fan dies while leaving stadium after Villa game

A 72-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion supporter has died after becoming unwell while leaving the stadium after the club's match against Aston Villa. The fan fell ill as they were heading to a supporters' club bus in the coach park following the game.

Despite the immediate and extensive efforts of emergency services and club staff, including South East Coast Ambulance Service paramedics, St John Ambulance, Sussex Police, MB Medical Solutions, the club's crowd doctor, and stewards, the supporter could not be saved. The man received prolonged CPR at the scene as responders worked to revive him.

“

What should have been an ordinary and happy journey home ended in heartbreaking circumstances, and we are all shocked and saddened by the loss of one of our supporters.

Brighton chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber shared his shock and sadness in a statement on the club's X account. "What should have been an ordinary and happy journey home ended in heartbreaking circumstances, and we are all shocked and saddened by the loss of one of our supporters," Barber said. "We extend our sincere condolences to the gentleman’s family and friends."

The club also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all those who responded to the medical emergency, highlighting the teamwork between emergency services and stadium staff in providing the best possible care. The incident has cast a somber shadow over what should have been a routine journey home for the lifelong football supporter.

“

We extend our sincere condolences to the gentleman’s family and friends.