A football fan in his 50s dies in hospital after a massive brawl between Blackpool and Burnley supporters outside the pub
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A man in his 50s has died following a massive brawl between football fans outside a pub in Blackpool.
Paramedics rushed 55-year-old Tony Johnson to hospital after suffering a head injury in the fight outside The Manchester pub on Saturday night, following the goalless Championship clash between Blackpool and Burnley.
He died in hospital today after spending the weekend on life support, Blackpool FC confirmed.
A Burnley fan in his 30s was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of injury and has been released on bail until June 1.
Tony Johnson was left in critical condition after the fight and died Monday morning after spending the weekend on life support
Paramedics resuscitated the man, who suffered a head injury, before he was taken to hospital in critical condition. He has since died, police confirmed
Supporters will be invited this afternoon to pay their respects in a condolence book at their Bloomfield Road stadium and to place flowers behind the north stand.
A club spokesman said: ‘Blackpool FC is deeply shocked and saddened by the news that supporter Tony Johnson was tragically killed earlier this morning.
“The club will be offering an open condolence register in the Moretti Lounge from 4pm, giving supporters the chance to pay their respects to Tony.
“Supporters are also invited to lay flowers at the Mortensen statue behind the North Stand at 4pm today, along with the club’s staff and players, giving everyone connected to the football club an opportunity to come together and to commemorate a lifelong Seasider.
“All thoughts from everyone at the football club go out to Tony’s family and friends. Rest in peace, Tony.’
A GoFundMe has been set up to support Mr Johnson’s family and has already raised over £2,500.
A friend posted online, “I don’t really know what to say. We are just in shock and heartbroken. What a guy.
“He was always there for me and family during the toughest times. He lived life to the fullest, loved us all and Blackpool FC.
“He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, you will never be forgotten.’
Armfield Club, a supporters’ club for Blackpool fans, tweeted that it was “difficult to put into words” how friends of Mr Johnson felt.
“It is very difficult to put into words how we all feel on this day and all our thoughts are with Tony’s partner and family. He didn’t deserve this to happen to him.
“Tony was a Blackpool fan through and through and one of the best friends you will ever cross your path in life.”
Burnley fans pictured during Saturday’s game against Blackpool. A man in his 50s has been left in critical condition after a brawl
Detective Chief Inspector Tracey McMurdo said on Monday: ‘Unfortunately, Mr Johnson passed away overnight in hospital and his family is, understandably, devastated.
“We support them through this difficult time and are committed to giving them answers about what happened.”
Inspector McMurdo called for witnesses to come forward and said “at the heart of this is a grieving family, who are incredibly saddened by what has happened.”
“The investigation continues and we will pursue all those involved to bring them to justice.
“We now continue to call for information about what happened.
“The incident took place in a busy area and we know there were many people around at the time who saw all or part of what happened.”
Police asked anyone with footage to share it with them, but said people were not allowed to share footage of the fight online.
Burnley FC said in a statement: ‘Burnley Football Club is shocked and saddened by the passing of Blackpool fan Tony Johnson in the early hours of the morning.
“We share our thoughts and condolences with his family, friends and everyone at Blackpool Football Club.”
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