Leeds Fan in Critical Condition After Fall During Promotion Celebrations – What We Know So Far
A young Leeds United supporter is currently in a coma following a tragic fall during the club’s recent Championship title celebrations. The incident happened as thousands of passionate fans flooded the streets to mark the team’s return to the Premier League.
Leeds United sealed their promotion after a dramatic win over Plymouth, thanks to a last-minute goal from Tottenham Hotspur loanee Manor Solomon. The city erupted in celebration, and more than 150,000 supporters gathered on Monday to honor their team’s success with a massive trophy parade.
But amid the euphoria, tragedy struck.
Ed O’Brien, a 23-year-old fan, reportedly fell from a tree in Millennium Square while trying to catch a glimpse of the players. Emergency services responded quickly, and O’Brien was rushed to Leeds General Infirmary, where he remains in a coma.
In the wake of the accident, a JustGiving page was launched by friends to support Ed and his family. What started with a modest £70 target has now raised over £10,800 and continues to climb as the community rallies behind him.
His mother, Stacey Barker, shared an emotional update, clarifying the situation and addressing false rumors circulating online. She explained that while Ed had consumed alcohol during the celebrations, he was not severely intoxicated, nor were other substances involved.
“This is every parent’s nightmare,” she told the BBC. “Our family is shattered, and Ed’s siblings are feeling his absence deeply.”
Ed recently turned 23 and had already undergone surgery, but the extent of brain damage remains unknown at this time.
Stacey also urged the public to be mindful of what they post online. “There’s already enough pain without having to deal with cruel or inaccurate comments,” she said. “Ed is a good young man who made a mistake, and he’s paying dearly for it.”