A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and subsequently bailed following a social media video that appeared to show a Coventry City supporter taunting opposition Sunderland fans with a photograph of Bradley Lowery.
Investigation and Arrest
The teenager turned himself in to West Midlands Police, who confirmed they were actively investigating the incident. The footage emerged from a Saturday fixture between Coventry City and Sunderland. Coventry City officials stated that the club is looking into the recording, emphasizing that offensive behavior is strictly prohibited and that they are cooperating with authorities to decide on the appropriate response.
Family and Foundation Response
Bradley Lowery passed away at the age of six in 2017 after battling a rare childhood cancer, having become a beloved figure across the football community. His mother, Gemma Lowery, shared an emotional reaction on Instagram regarding the incident.
“So much of Bradley’s short life was spent battling cancer and enduring treatments no child should ever face,” she wrote. “To see such a beautiful memory used in such a cruel way really does make my heart hurt.”
Through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which works to raise funds and awareness to support children fighting cancer, she expressed that her son deserves to be remembered with love rather than hate. She also noted that she wished to avoid directing hatred toward the teenager involved, hoping instead that he would learn from his mistakes.
West Midlands Police acknowledged the widespread distress caused by the video and confirmed that they are maintaining communication with Bradley’s family as their inquiries proceed.
