A leisure centre operator has been formally charged in connection with the death of a footballer who was electrocuted during a five-a-side match almost a decade ago. The case relates to a tragic incident in which a routine moment on the pitch turned fatal.
Footballer Killed During Five-a-Side Match
The victim was playing a casual five-a-side game with friends at a leisure centre in Portsmouth when the incident occurred. During the match, the ball went out of the playing area, and it was his turn to retrieve it.
Contact With Floodlight Proved Fatal
As he went to collect the ball, he came into contact with a floodlight and its supporting structure. He received a powerful electric shock that caused him to suffer a seizure and collapse on the pitch.
Emergency Response and Death
Friends immediately attempted to help, but in doing so some of them also received electric shocks while trying to pull him away from the floodlight.
Pronounced Dead Later That Evening
Despite resuscitation efforts at the scene and further treatment at hospital, he never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead later the same evening.
Family Remember a Loving Son and Brother
The victim’s family described him as someone who approached everything in life with passion and commitment, including football.
Tribute From Loved Ones
They said he played every game with intensity and joy, treating friendly matches with the same enthusiasm as competitive ones. He was remembered as a devoted son and a caring older brother.
Inquest Findings
An inquest into the death heard detailed evidence about the moments leading up to the incident.
Coroner’s Conclusion
The coroner concluded that the footballer was fatally electrocuted after touching the floodlight while returning the ball to the pitch. Despite swift action by friends and emergency services, his injuries proved fatal.
Company Charged Over Safety Failures
The company responsible for operating the five-a-side pitch at the time has now been charged with failing to protect members of the public.
Court Appearance Scheduled
The organisation is due to appear before a magistrates’ court later this year to face charges under health and safety legislation. The case may be subject to adjournment.
Company Response
In a brief statement, the operator expressed condolences to the victim’s family and said it could not comment further due to ongoing legal proceedings.