A West Brom fan has died after being taken ill while watching the Baggies play Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.
Around 3,000 supporters were in the away end as West Brom travelled to South Yorkshire for a lunchtime kick-off in the Championship. During the first half, distressed fans called for the game to be stopped as a supporter was taken ill.
Stewards and medics rushed to their aid, but the game continued. It has now been confirmed the supporter, who was carried out of Hillsborough, has passed away.
West Brom posted on X during the game: “We are aware of a medical emergency that took place during the first half of today’s game at Hillsborough. Our thoughts and best wishes are with an Albion fan who is receiving medical treatment. We ask all fans to full cooperate with stewards while this incident is being managed.”
In reply, an account named Baggie Steve posted: “It is with great sadness that I have to report that my brother who was taken ill during the match has sadly passed away, my son was with him and is absolutely devastated by the events that unfolded as we all are. My thanks to the Albion fan who did her best to resuscitate him.”
West Brom then confirmed the tragic news. In a statement, the club said: “West Bromwich Albion Football Club is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of a supporter following a medical emergency during Saturday’s fixture at Sheffield Wednesday.
“The club has made contact with the supporter’s family to pass on its condolences and asks they are allowed to grieve privately. The thoughts of all of us will remain with the supporter’s loved ones at this desperately sad time.”
Sheffield Wednesday added: “Sheffield Wednesday are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of a West Bromwich Albion supporter during today’s game following a medical emergency. Our hearts go out to the supporter’s family, loved ones and the wider WBA community at this incredibly difficult time.”
On the pitch, Sheffield Wednesday won the game 3-2 to pull clear of the Championship relegation zone. A Darnell Furlong own goal and a looping header from Josh Windass put the Owls 2-0 up at half-time.
West Brom hit back with strikes from Josh Maja and Alex Mowatt before Anthony Musaba won it late for Wednesday. West Brom remain top of the second tier despite the defeat.
