South Yorkshire Police are conducting an investigation following the emergence of distressing images on social media showing football fans, reportedly Sheffield Wednesday supporters, seemingly laughing while holding up a picture of Bradley Lowery. The six-year-old Sunderland superfan tragically lost his battle with cancer in 2017.

The pictures, believed to be taken during Sunderland’s 3-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough on September 29, have prompted an inquiry into potential public order offences at the match. South Yorkshire Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The Bradley Lowery Foundation issued a statement expressing the family’s profound upset at the images circulating on social media. The Foundation acknowledged Sheffield Wednesday’s swift condemnation of the incident, emphasising that Bradley’s legacy united the football community with his infectious smile and personality.

Sheffield Wednesday, in collaboration with South Yorkshire Police, has launched an immediate investigation into the matter. The football club released a statement, denouncing the actions depicted in the images as “outrageous and utterly deplorable.” They issued a sincere apology for the distress caused to Bradley’s family and friends.

Bradley Lowery’s poignant friendship with then-Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe captured the hearts of people worldwide, as his family shared his cancer journey following his diagnosis. The Bradley Lowery Foundation, while acknowledging this as an isolated incident, expressed gratitude for Sheffield Wednesday’s condemnation and thanked the broader football community for their ongoing support.