Northern Ireland fan dies after collapsing in Lyon
A Northern Ireland fan in his sixties has collapsed and died while attending the side game against Ukraine.The man collapsed in the upper part of the Stade de Lyon and was treated by paramedics who were unable to revive him.
The incident happened during Northern Ireland’s 2-0 victory over Ukraine.PSNI Superintendent Nigel Goddard said: “Our thoughts are tragically with a second family this week mourning the devastating loss of their loved one.We understand the man aged in his sixties collapsed during the game and was attended to by emergency services in the Stade de Lyon.It is extremely sad that this is the second death of a Northern Ireland fan in France during the Euro 2016 games.”
He is the second Northern Irish fan to die after 24-year-old Darren Rodgers fell eight metres off a promenade in the south coast city of Nice and died.
Fans applauded his memory in tribute during the 24th minute of tonight’s match.
Mr Goddard said the PSNI had been liaising with French authorities and local PSNI officers have been in touch with the man’s family in Belfast. Flags, shirts and scarves have been left at the ground in tribute to the dead man.A paramedic who treated him said: “We tried but we could not. It is very sad.”
Northern Ireland captain Steven Davis said: “We just heard the news in the dressing room. It’s really terrible news. We send our condolences and deepest sympathies to his family and friends.” An Irish Football Association statement said it was deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death. Chief executive Patrick Nelson said: “The fan passed away as he was watching the game in the stadium. This puts any result of a football match into perspective.The thoughts of the board, management, players and staff are with his family and friends at this sad time.”
The Football Association of Ireland have also offered their sincere condolences following the incident.In a statement, they said: The FAI would like to express its sympathies to the family and friends of the man, and would like to offer its support and solidarity to the IFA.FAI CEO John Delaney added: “This is a sad outcome to what was a historic day for Northern Irish football following their victory over Ukraine.”
