Blackpool FC have confirmed this evening that lifelong fan Tony Johnson has passed away in hospital following an assault after the Tangerines’ clash against Burnley. The Seasiders welcomed their local rivals to Bloomfield Road on Saturday, with the teams settling for a 0-0 draw – but a mass brawl outside The Manchester pub post-match saw Tony Johnson hospitalised with a severe head injury, according to Lancashire Constabulary.
On Monday, it was confirmed that Tony Johnson had passed away aged 55. Since the news broke, the footballing world has paid tribute to the dedicated fan, offering support to his family and friends at this difficult time. Blackpool Council will ensure the Blackpool Tower is lit up in tangerine, while the club have opened a book of condolences at their Bloomfield Road ground.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help Tony’s family with the costs of his funeral. We would encourage you to donate via this link, if you are able to do so. The FromTheSpot team would like to extend our best wishes to Tony’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
Anyone with information or video footage that may help Lancashire Constabulary’s investigation is encouraged to contact the force by calling 101 and quoting incident number 1262 of March 4th. Alternatively, you can submit evidence online via this link.