West Midlands Police launch investigation as 14-year-old hands himself in after Coventry City incident
Gemma Lowery has spoken out after footage circulated appearing to show a Coventry City supporter using a photograph of her late son to taunt Sunderland fans
West Midlands Police have confirmed a 14-year-old boy has handed himself in following an incident involving a photograph of Bradley Lowery during Sunderland's Premier League defeat to Coventry City.
Police have launched a thorough investigation after footage circulated on social media appearing to show an individual in the Coventry City end using a photograph of the late Sunderland supporter to taunt visiting fans during Saturday's Premier League fixture.
The incident occurred during Sunderland's 3-1 defeat at the Coventry Building Society Arena on October 31, prompting widespread outrage and an emotional statement from Bradley's mother, Gemma Lowery. West Midlands Police have now confirmed that a 14-year-old boy has handed himself in and will be spoken to by officers in due course.
The force is working closely with both football clubs and keeping Bradley's family updated on the investigation. Bradley, a lifelong Sunderland supporter from Blackhall Colliery, died in July 2017 at the age of six after battling neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer. His story touched the hearts of football supporters across the country, and his legacy continues through the Bradley Lowery Foundation.
West Midlands Police confirm investigation and 14-year-old boy handing himself in
In a statement issued following the incident, West Midlands Police said: "We are aware of a video circulating on social media showing an incident at Coventry City's Premier League match with Sunderland yesterday afternoon (31 Oct). A thorough investigation has been launched, and a 14-year-old boy has since handed himself in and will be spoken with in due course.
"We understand the upset and outrage this video has caused in the community and to the victim's family and our officers are keeping them up to date with the progress of our investigation and working closely alongside both football clubs."
Police have not confirmed any arrest or charge in connection with the incident.
Coventry City issue statement following Bradley Lowery incident
Coventry City have also responded to the footage, confirming that the club is aware of the incident and will work with the relevant authorities to determine what action should be taken.
A Coventry City spokesperson told The Echo: "Coventry City FC is aware of footage circulating on social media in connection with an incident during our Premier League fixture against Sunderland. The club does not tolerate offensive behaviour and will liaise with the relevant authorities to determine the appropriate course of action."
Gemma Lowery issues heartbreaking statement over photograph of Bradley
Bradley's mother, Gemma, has spoken of the pain caused by the incident, particularly as the photograph allegedly used to taunt Sunderland supporters is one of her favourite pictures of her son. In a statement shared through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, Gemma said: "My beautiful boy deserves to be remembered with love, not hate."
She continued: "Yesterday, a Coventry fan used a photograph of Bradley to taunt Sunderland supporters. As Bradley’s mam, this is heartbreaking, especially as it’s one of my favourite photographs of him. Just look at that smile. I remember that day like it was yesterday. He was so happy, having so much fun. Those moments were precious because they were few and far between. So much of Bradley’s short life was spent battling cancer and enduring treatments no child should ever face. To see such a beautiful memory used in such a cruel way really does make my heart hurt."
Gemma also stressed that she did not want the individual responsible to become the target of hatred, instead expressing hope that the incident would become an opportunity for education and understanding. "We are a football-loving family who follow Sunderland home and away. I’m all for football banter, but surely mocking a child who died from cancer is not banter? I hope the club takes appropriate action and the young lad’s family help him understand how hurtful his actions were.
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“I don’t want hatred directed towards him, so please, please don't, just for him to learn from this. Behind that photograph is a little boy who was loved beyond measure and a family who miss him every day. Thank you to everyone who has defended Bradley and shown us so much love. It means more than you know."
Gemma Lowery sends powerful message about Bradley's lasting legacy
Despite the hurt caused by the incident, Gemma was determined to ensure that the focus remained on Bradley's life and the extraordinary legacy he has left through the foundation established in his name.
She continued: "What some people don’t realise is that Bradley’s story didn’t end when his life did. Because of Bradley, children’s lives are being saved, hundreds of families have received vital support, and children facing unimaginable battles are being given hope.
"Through Super Brad’s Pad, families can escape hospital life, spend precious time together and make memories that last forever. That is Bradley’s legacy. The difference my little boy continues to make in this world. No amount of cruelty will ever take that away.
"So rather than let this photograph be remembered for hatred, I want it remembered for what it truly represents. My beautiful little boy, enjoying one of the happiest days of his life, with the biggest smile on his face. #CancerHasNoColours. That is how I want the world to remember him."