CCTV image of fan released after flare lands by girl’s wheelchair during Sunderland v Birmingham City match

Police investigating an assault during a football match involving Birmingham City have released an image of a man they would like to trace.

During the Sunderland v Birmingham City game at the Stadium of Light between 3pm and 5pm on Saturday, April 15, it was reported that a flare was thrown from the away fan section of the ground into the lower north stand.

The flare has then landed between the wheels of a wheelchair where a 12-year-old child was sitting. The victim suffered smoke inhalation and was left shaken as a result. No other injuries were reported, police said.

An investigation was launched by Northumbria Police and enquiries have been carried out to date, including a review of CCTV footage.

As part of their ongoing enquiries, officers have today (Wednesday, 16 August) issued an image of a man who they would like to trace in connection with the report.

He was seen in the area at the time of the offence and may have information that would assist the investigation.

A statement from Northumbria Police, read: “The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101 quoting crime number 048528J/23.”