English second-tier club Blackpool said they were “deeply shocked” after a supporter died in a pub after Saturday’s game with Burnley.
The supporter, named Tony Johnson, 55, was found outside a Blackpool seafront bar with serious head injuries.
“Blackpool FC is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the news that supporter, Tony Johnson, tragically lost his life this morning,” a statement read on monday,
Lancashire Police said a 33-year-old man from Burnley was arrested at the scene on suspicion of wounding and has since been granted bail pending further inquiries until 1 June.
🧡 Our thoughts are with the family and friends of lifelong Blackpool supporter Tony Johnson who passed away this morning.
Tonight, Blackpool Tower BFC will light up tangerine to show their support to the BFC community and all those affected by the devastating news. pic.twitter.com/CPvmM84JSk
– Blackpool Council (@BpoolCouncil) March 6, 2023
DCI Tracey McMurdo of Lancashire Police said: “Sadly, Mr Johnson died in hospital overnight and his family is devastated. We are supporting him at this difficult time and are determined to respond to his “
Following the news, it was announced that Blackpool Tower had been lit in memory of Johnson.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Tony Johnson, a lifelong Blackpool supporter who passed away this morning,” Blackpool Council said in a tweet.
“Tonight, Blackpool Tower will light up tangerine to show its support to the BFC community and all those affected by the devastating news.”