Tony Johnson, a devoted Blackpool fan, tragically lost his life after an altercation with 15 football fans outside a pub following the Seasiders’ 0-0 draw with Burnley. The 55-year-old was found by police with a serious head injury outside the Manchester Pub on the Promenade in Blackpool. Despite the officers administering CPR at the scene, he passed away after sustaining head injuries in the early hours of March 6.
Tony was a popular character amongst the fan base and regularly followed the Tangerines to home and away games. Blackpool fans have set up a GoFundMe to support his partner and family, and a massive £14,219 has been raised in Tony’s memory so far, with the total still rising.
The football club released a statement expressing their deep shock and sadness at the news of Tony’s passing. They offered an open book of condolence from 4pm in the Moretti Lounge, giving supporters the opportunity to pay their respects to Tony. The club staff, players, and fans all gathered to lay flowers and remember a lifelong Seasider at the Stan Mortensen stand at 4pm on March 6.
The Blackpool Tower was lit up tangerine in Tony’s memory, and the thoughts of everyone at the football club go out to Tony’s family and friends. Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting log 675 of March 6, or report it online. Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
The tragic incident highlights the importance of safety measures in football matches and the need for fans to behave responsibly. It is essential to remember that football is just a game, and no match is worth risking someone’s life over. Fans should enjoy the game while respecting each other and avoiding any violent behavior that could lead to tragic consequences.
Football clubs have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their fans during matches and events. They should work closely with local authorities to implement effective security measures and prevent any incidents that could harm their supporters. It is also crucial for clubs to promote positive behavior among their fans and encourage them to show respect towards each other.
In conclusion, Tony Johnson’s tragic death is a reminder of the importance of safety measures in football matches and the need for fans to behave responsibly. The football community should come together to support his family and friends during this difficult time and work towards preventing similar incidents from happening in the future.