A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of a public order offence following a Bradley Lowery taunt during Coventry City’s Premier League fixture against Sunderland on Saturday. The teenager handed himself in to West Midlands Police and has since been released on bail while inquiries continue.
The arrest relates to a video shared on social media that appeared to show a Coventry supporter mocking Sunderland fans with a photograph of Bradley, the six-year-old Black Cats fan who died in 2017 after being diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer.
Mother's Statement Highlights Pain
Bradley’s mother, Gemma Lowery, addressed the incident in an Instagram post, describing the impact of seeing her son’s memory used in such a manner. She said that much of Bradley’s short life had been consumed by cancer treatment and procedures no child should have to endure, and that witnessing a cherished of him turned into a tool for cruelty caused her deep distress.
In a further message shared through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, the charity set up in her son’s name to support children with cancer, she said her “beautiful boy deserves to be remembered with love, not hate.” Lowery also made clear that she did not want hostility directed at the teenager involved, preferring that he learn from his actions instead.
Club and Police Response
Coventry City issued a statement acknowledging that footage was circulating online in connection with an incident at the match. The club said it does not tolerate offensive behaviour and would work with the relevant authorities to decide the appropriate course of action. The Sky Blues are also conducting their own investigation into the footage.
West Midlands Police said they understood the upset the video had caused and confirmed that Bradley’s family were being kept informed as the investigation progresses. The force had previously confirmed that the 14-year-old turned himself in.
Bradley's Legacy
Bradley Lowery became a well-known figure in English football during his illness, forming a close bond with then-Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe and capturing the affection of supporters across the country. His death at the age of six prompted widespread tributes, and the foundation established in his memory continues to raise funds and awareness for children facing cancer.
The incident at the Coventry-Sunderland match has drawn attention not only for its legal implications but for the emotional weight carried by Bradley’s family and the wider football community. The police investigation remains active, and no further details about the case have been released.
