Charlton supporter passes away after collapsing in the stand with match called off

A tragic incident occurred at The Valley on Saturday as a Charlton Athletic supporter suffered a medical emergency, leading to the suspension of the Championship match against Portsmouth just 12 minutes into play.

Referee Matthew Donohue stopped the game immediately, and both teams remained on the pitch while paramedics attended to the fan in the lower tier of the Covered End. After several minutes of treatment, the players were sent to the dressing rooms, and the supporter was taken to the hospital on a stretcher.

The match was officially abandoned nearly an hour later, with Charlton confirming that details on the rescheduled fixture would be announced in due course. The club later confirmed the supporter had passed away, issuing a statement expressing their devastation:

"Charlton Athletic is heartbroken to announce that one of our supporters has died following a medical emergency during todays game against Portsmouth. The match was stopped in the 12th minute as treatment was given and has now been postponed. We thank our staff and the first responders for their efforts, but sadly the supporter did not survive."

"We also extend our gratitude to the fans present and to the Portsmouth players and staff for their understanding during this distressing event. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the supporter during this incredibly difficult time."

Portsmouth Football Club also expressed their sorrow in a statement, saying: "We are devastated to hear about the passing of the Charlton supporter who became unwell at todays game. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with their family and friends."

This comes months after a similar incident in January, when a Portsmouth fan died following a medical emergency during a home game against Middlesbrough. The previous match was briefly halted and resumed after the supporter was carried away on a stretcher. Portsmouth thanked fans from both sides for their compassion and patience during that difficult situation.

Author: Harper Simmons