Brighton fan, 72, dies after leaving Amex following 4-0 win over Aston Villa

A 72-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion supporter died on Sunday after collapsing in the coach park outside the Amex Stadium following the club’s 4-0 Premier League win over Aston Villa, the club have confirmed.

The man fell ill as he was leaving the ground to board a supporters’ club bus. South East Coast Ambulance Service paramedics, St John’s Ambulance, Sussex Police, MB Medical Solutions, the club’s crowd doctor and stewards all responded, administering prolonged CPR at the scene, but were unable to save him.

In an official statement, Brighton said: “What should have been an ordinary and happy journey home ended in heartbreaking circumstances.” CEO Paul Barber added: “We are all shocked and saddened by the loss of one of our supporters. We extend our sincere condolences to the gentleman’s family and friends.”

The death casts a shadow over what had otherwise been a bright start to Brighton’s season. The Seagulls were dominant against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa, running out comfortable 4-0 winners on the opening day of the Premier League campaign.

The club noted that this is the second consecutive season in which a supporter has died after attending Brighton’s opening fixture, though no further details on the previous incident were provided in the statement.