Coventry fan, 14, arrested after taunting Sunderland supporters with Bradley Lowery photo

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and released on bail after handing himself in to West Midlands Police, following a video that appeared to show him taunting Sunderland supporters with a photo of Bradley Lowery during Saturday’s Premier League clash at Coventry.

Police confirmed they are continuing to investigate the incident and said they understand the distress the footage has caused. Officers added that Bradley’s family are being kept updated as the inquiry progresses.

Bradley Lowery was a Sunderland supporter who died aged six in 2017 after being diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer. His story resonated widely across the football world, with the young fan forming a particularly well-documented bond with former Sunderland striker Jermaine Defoe.

Coventry City also confirmed they are investigating the footage. A club spokesperson said: “Coventry City FC is aware of footage circulating on social media in connection with an incident during our Premier League fixture against Sunderland. The club does not tolerate offensive behaviour and will liaise with the relevant authorities to determine the appropriate course of action.”

Bradley’s mother, Gemma, issued a statement saying she hates seeing images of her son used “in a cruel way”. Writing on social media, she said: “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.”

In a further update through the Bradley Lowery Foundation — which raises funds and awareness to support children with cancer — Gemma said her “beautiful boy deserves to be remembered with love, not hate.” She also stated she did not want hatred directed at the teenager involved, but hoped he would learn from his actions.

The incident comes amid a sustained crackdown on so-called tragedy chanting at football grounds. Supporters found guilty of such behaviour have faced lengthy bans in recent years as authorities work to eradicate it from the game.