The Metropolitan Police have launched an investigation after a 33-year-old man was found dead at Charlton Athletic's The Valley stadium in south-east London on Tuesday morning.
Officers and paramedics from the London Ambulance Service attended the ground in Charlton following concerns for the welfare of a person. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and, according to the Metropolitan Police, are receiving support from officers.
Detectives are examining the possibility that the man fell from height in the early hours of Monday morning. The death is currently being treated as unexpected while inquiries continue. No arrests have been reported and no suggestion of wrongdoing on the part of the club has been made.
Charlton Athletic confirmed they are assisting the authorities. In a statement, a club spokesperson said: "Everyone at Charlton Athletic would like to express their deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the individual's family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. The club are continuing to assist the authorities with their inquiries and respectfully ask that the privacy of those affected is respected."
The club also thanked its staff for their professionalism in handling what it described as a "particularly difficult and distressing situation".
The Valley, which sits in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, has been Charlton's home since 1919 and currently holds around 27,111 spectators. The Championship club's new league season is under way, and the ground had been in regular use in the weeks leading up to the incident.
The Metropolitan Police have not confirmed a timeline for the investigation. No further details about the identity of the man have been released at this stage, in keeping with the wishes of his family.
This is a developing story. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Metropolitan Police.
Frequently asked
- What happened at The Valley stadium?
- A 33-year-old man was found dead at Charlton Athletic's The Valley ground on Tuesday morning. Police are investigating the possibility that he fell from height in the early hours of Monday morning. The death is being treated as unexpected.
- Is Charlton Athletic under investigation?
- No. The Metropolitan Police have stated there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing on the part of the club. Charlton Athletic say they are cooperating fully with the authorities.
- Will Charlton Athletic's matches be affected?
- The club has made no announcement regarding any impact on forthcoming fixtures. Their Championship season is ongoing and no disruption to scheduled matches has been reported.