▲ Bradley Lowery during his lifetime
A 14-year-old boy who sparked controversy by mocking the opposing team with a photo of a young fan who passed away from cancer during an English professional football match is set to be investigated by police.
According to outlets such as the UK's BBC on November 2 (Korea Standard Time), a video was posted on social media showing a football fan mocking Sunderland using a photo of Bradley Lowery during the match between Coventry City and Sunderland held the previous day.
During the match, which the home team Coventry won 3-1, a fan in the Coventry stands was captured on video displaying a photo of Lowery on a smartphone screen and pointing it toward Sunderland fans.
West Midlands Police stated, "We are aware of the incident and a thorough investigation has been launched," adding, "A 14-year-old boy has voluntarily attended a police station. The boy will be interviewed shortly."
They continued, "We are well aware of how much hurt and anger this video has caused the local community and the victim's family. Officers are keeping the family updated on the progress of the investigation and are working closely with both clubs."
Lowery suffered from neuroblastoma, a rare childhood cancer, and passed away in 2017 at the age of six.
His heartbreaking battle and the fact that he and his family were ardent fans of Sunderland made Lowery a familiar name among football fans as well.
Invited by the Sunderland club, Lowery had the opportunity to enter the pitch holding the hand of his favorite player, Jermain Defoe, and even took part in a penalty kick event.
Lowery also served as an escort when Defoe played in a match for the England national team.
Through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, established to support children battling cancer, Lowery's mother stated, "Our beautiful boy should be remembered with love, not hate," adding, "It breaks my heart to see such beautiful memories (with Lowery) being used in such a cruel way."
She remarked, "Our family truly loves football and follows Sunderland to all their home and away matches," and asked, "While I agree with the culture of playful banter at football stadiums, can mocking a child who passed away from cancer really be considered banter?"
She also stated, "I hope the club takes appropriate action and that the suspect fan's family helps him realize how much pain his actions have caused," adding that she does not want any hatred directed at the fan in question.
(Photo: Getty Images)
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