Star Athlete Dies At 21 After Horrific In-Game Accident

A rising star in English soccer has died after a freak accident involving a diving save gone wrong.

Billy Vigar, who previously played in Arsenal’s academy program, died after being placed into an induced coma on Tuesday following Saturday’s match. Vigar reportedly collided with a concrete wall while rushing to try and keep the soccer ball from going out of play.

He suffered a significant brain injury as a result. Doctors were attempting to aid his recovery during a surgery on Tuesday when he died.

“It is with great sadness that Chichester City Football Club has to confirm the passing of Billy Vigar,” his club said in a statement on social media.

“After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put in an induced coma,” it goes on. “On Tuesday he needed an operation to aid any chances of recovery. Although this helped, the injury proved too much for him and he passed away on Thursday (25th) morning.

“We request that his family’s privacy is respected at this most difficult time. Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club.”

The death of Vigar resulted in the cancellation of Saturday’s scheduled match between Chichester City and Lewes.

His family said in a statement through the team, “The responses to the original update show how much Billy was thought of and loved within the sport. His family are devastated that this has happened whilst he was playing the sport that he loved.”

Arsenal, one of the most formidable and storied English soccer teams of the 21st century, recruited Vigar in 2017 when he was just 14 years old. He signed a professional contract with the club in 2022.

Other clubs Vigar played with before his death included Derby, Eastbourne Borough, and Hastings United.

“Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news that former academy graduate Billy Vigar has passed away,” Arsenal said in a statement. The club described him as a “powerful and versatile forward.

“All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time. Rest in peace, Billy.”

Chichester City is a farm club in the Arsenal program and plays in the Isthmian League Premier Division. The league announced that a moment of silence will be held at all upcoming matches in Vigar’s memory.

Players across the league will also wear black armbands to signify their support for his family, Fox News reported.