A 23-year-old Leeds United fan, Ed O’Brien, is in a coma after falling from a tree during the club’s Premier League promotion celebrations on Monday.
The incident occurred in Millennium Square as over 150,000 fans flooded Leeds to celebrate their dramatic return to the top flight, secured by a late goal from Tottenham loanee Manor Solomon against Plymouth.
O’Brien was rushed to Leeds General Infirmary and has since undergone surgery, though concerns remain about possible brain damage.
His mother, Stacey Barker, said the fall was a tragic accident: “Ed is just a young man who made a mistake and he’s paying for it dearly.” She also clarified that her son was not heavily intoxicated and that no substances were involved.
A JustGiving fundraiser launched by friends has raised over £10,000 to support the family. Among the donors is NBA star and Leeds investor Larry Nance Jr, who contributed £2,000 with a message of support: “Thinking of you. Strength and love!”
The family, who commute daily from York to be by Ed’s side, appealed for compassion. “Some of the unwarranted comments are compounding our heartache,” Barker said. “We urge people to consider what they are writing.”
Leeds United have yet to make an official statement regarding the incident.
