What began as a jubilant day of celebration for Leeds United has taken a heartbreaking turn, as a young supporter, Ed O’Brien, remains in a critical condition following a fall from a tree during the club’s promotion festivities.
The 23-year-old lifelong fan was among the sea of more than 150,000 supporters who flooded the streets of Leeds on Monday to revel in the club’s return to the Premier League. The celebrations were sparked by a dramatic stoppage-time goal from Tottenham Hotspur loanee Manor Solomon, which secured Leeds’ Championship title in a nail-biting finish against Plymouth.
O’Brien fell from a tree in Millennium Square amidst the mass celebrations and was immediately rushed to Leeds General Infirmary. He is currently in a coma, with his condition described as critical. His family is holding on to hope as he remains under intensive medical care, having recently undergone emergency surgery.
His mother, Stacey Barker, speaking publicly for the first time, described the incident as a tragic accident. “Ed is just a young man who made a mistake and he’s paying for it dearly,” she said through tears. “He wasn’t out of control or heavily intoxicated, and no other substances were involved. He was simply caught up in the joy of the moment.”
As the family travels daily from York to be at Ed’s bedside, they’ve been overwhelmed by both the emotional toll and the outpouring of public support. A JustGiving page set up by Ed’s friends has already raised over £10,000 to support his recovery. One of the most notable contributions came from NBA player and Leeds United investor Larry Nance Jr., who donated £2,000 along with a heartfelt message: “Thinking of you. Strength and love!”
Stacey also urged the public to show empathy. “Some of the comments online have been incredibly hurtful. We’re already living through a nightmare—please consider how your words might affect a family going through something like this.”
Ed, who had recently celebrated his 23rd birthday, is described by those close to him as a vibrant, caring young man with a tight-knit relationship with his siblings. “He’s strong, and we’re holding on to every bit of hope we have,” his mother added.
As Leeds United fans across the globe celebrate the team’s triumphant return to top-flight football, many now also send thoughts and prayers to Ed O’Brien and his family, hoping that one day he too can look back on this historic moment not with tragedy, but with triumph.
