A 72-year-old Brighton supporter has died after becoming unwell during the second half of his team’s Premier League fixture against Fulham.
The man, who was in the upper tier of the East Stand at Brighton’s Amex Stadium, received prolonged CPR and defibrillation from medics at the scene.
Emergency services and club staff tried to save him but he passed away following the conclusion of the match yesterday afternoon, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said: ‘This was an incredibly sad end to the match this afternoon, and our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family and friends of the gentleman who lost his life.
‘While the gentleman concerned is foremost in our minds, we are also aware that it was an emotional and distressing situation for staff and supporters in the direct vicinity. Over the coming days we will ensure those affected are properly supported.’
CPR and defibrillation was carried out at the scene because medics deemed that he had the highest chance of survival by not being moved to hospital.
Brighton and Fulham players observe a moment’s silence in memory of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva ahead of the Premier League match at the American Express Stadium yesterday
Brighton and Hove Albion’s Matt O’Riley celebrates scoring the opening goal in the 55th minute
Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz celebrates scoring in the 96th minute at the Amex Stadium to equalise
The club stewarding team put privacy screens in place, and discussions were held by the safety team, Sussex Police and the Premier League about stopping the match.
But the club said that a decision was taken not to do this because the majority of supporters and both sets of players were unaware at the time.
Brighton said it was felt any stoppage would have brought further attention to the scene and potentially impacted the resuscitation attempts.
There were also concerns this would have created further complications had the patient responded and required rapid transportation to hospital.
Club doctor and emergency medicine consultant Dr Rob Galloway said: ‘I would like to convey my condolences and sympathies to the gentleman’s family and friends.
‘It was a tragic outcome, but from an emergency response perspective, the medical care was exemplary, and the professionalism of club stewards and Sussex Police provided the medical team with the best possible working environment.’
The club added that any staff or supporters who witnessed the event could call the Samaritans on 116 123 or text Young Minds on 85258.
Rodrigo Muniz equalised for Fulham in the sixth minute of second-half stoppage time after Matt O’Riley’s scored a penalty for Brighton in the 55th minute.
