A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and subsequently bailed, after a video on social media appeared to show a Coventry City fan taunting opposition Sunderland fans with a photo of Bradley Lowery.
Sunderland fan Bradley, who died aged six in 2017 after being diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer, captured the hearts of the football world.
The 14-year-old handed himself into West Midlands Police, who said they were investigating the incident.
The Sky Blues added they were also investigating the footage from Saturday’s Premier League match and Bradley’s mother, Gemma, issued an emotional statement.
“So much of Bradley’s short life was spent battling cancer and enduring treatments no child should ever face,” she posted on Instagram.
“To see such a beautiful memory used in such a cruel way really does make my heart hurt.”
Her “beautiful boy deserves to be remembered with love, not hate,” Lowery said in an update through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which raises funds and awareness to help and support children with cancer.
She added she did not want hatred directing at the teenager involved, but instead wanted him to learn from his actions.
A spokesperson for the club said: “Coventry City FC is aware of footage circulating on social media in connection with an incident during our Premier League fixture against Sunderland [on Saturday].”
“The club does not tolerate offensive behaviour and will liaise with the relevant authorities to determine the appropriate course of action.”
West Midlands Police added they understood the upset the video had caused and were keeping Bradley’s family updated as the investigation continued.
By BBC Sports
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