A 14-year-old boy has “handed himself in” to West Midlands Police after a video posted on social media appeared to show a fan taunting Sunderland with a photo of Bradley Lowery during Saturday’s Premier League match.
Sunderland fan Bradley died aged six in 2017 from neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer.
Coventry said on Sunday they were investigating the video footage while Bradley’s mother, Gemma, released her own statement through the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which raises funds and awareness to help and support children with cancer.
West Midlands Police have confirmed an investigation is now under way.
“We are aware of a video circulating on social media showing an incident at Coventry City’s Premier League match with Sunderland,” a police statement said.
“A thorough investigation has been launched, and a 14-year-old boy has since handed himself in and will be spoken with in due course.
“We understand the upset and outrage this video has caused in the community and to the victim’s family, and our officers are keeping them up to date with the progress of our investigation and working closely alongside both football clubs.”
Coventry said they were aware of the video and the club “does not tolerate offensive behaviour” and will co-operate with the relative authorities.
Gemma Lowery said her “beautiful boy deserves to be remembered with love, not hate” in her statement.
“As Bradley’s mam, this is heartbreaking, especially as it’s one of my favourite photographs of him. Just look at that smile,” she said.
“I remember that day like it was yesterday. He was so happy, having so much fun. Those moments were precious because they were few and far between.
“So much of Bradley’s short life was spent battling cancer and enduring treatments no child should ever face.
“To see such a beautiful memory used in such a cruel way really does make my heart hurt.
“We are a football-loving family who follow Sunderland home and away. I’m all for football banter, but surely mocking a child who died from cancer is not banter?
“I hope the club takes appropriate action and the young lad’s family help him understand how hurtful his actions were.”
Lowery added she did not want any “hatred directed” towards the fan, but hoped the “club takes appropriate action”.