Bradford City AFC would like to reiterate its condemnation of the use of pyrotechnics, after a home supporter was struck by a device in yesterday’s visit of Newport County.
During the game, a flare was thrown by a spectator in the upper tier of The Kop, to the lower tier, where it hit a supporter, causing injury.
The club is seeking witnesses to help identify those responsible. We are also reviewing CCTV footage, and hope to provide West Yorkshire Police with images to further identify suspects.
The person(s) found responsible will face an indefinite suspension for all Bradford City fixtures, as will anyone connected to the incident, or trying to conceal it.
City’s chief executive officer, Ryan Sparks, said: “Given our history, and what many of our supporters have been through together, it was utterly sickening to see a pyrotechnic deployed inside Valley Parade yesterday.
“After what our club has experienced, it is abhorrent to think one of our own supporters would show such a disregard for our history, and such disrespect to fellow supporters.
“Yesterday’s events will have no doubt affected a number of people who were made to witness them. For that, on behalf of the football club, I would like to apologise.
“It is incredibly disappointing to be discussing this kind of behaviour so early into the new season, given the statement issued recently concerning misconduct on matchday and its implications - both in terms of the club’s finances and reputation.
“When we find those responsible, they will face the strongest-possible action, and we urge anyone with information to step forward and assist with our investigations.”
The club could now be subject to sanctions from the footballing authorities, as a result of yesterday’s incident, in addition to further ramifications following investigations undertaken.
Anyone who may have any further information which could be of assistance is asked to e-mail helpdesk@bradfordcityafc.com or call 01274 773355 (ext. 223).