‘Abhorrent’: Disability charity pleads with Birmingham City fans as Sunderland slam smoke bomb incident

A charity for disabled sports fans has shared its disappointment at the actions of a Birmingham City fan who threw a smoke bomb into a wheelchair user section at Sunderland last weekend.

Level Playing Field also explained the dangers that such actions could have on disabled fans.

Sunderland has confirmed that the person behind the act has been identified and passed on to West Midlands Police as they labelled the situation 'abhorrent'.

Chair of Level Playing Field, Tony Taylor, said: “We have been disappointed by this weekend’s scenes and the direct impact on an area where disabled supporters were congregated.

“The use of smoke bombs and pyrotechnics has continued to be an issue this season, despite increased measures to prevent it.

“Fumes released by smoke bombs can impact respiratory conditions for some, and trigger panic attacks, seizures and sensory overload for others.

“Access can also be impeded and create a dangerous situation for disabled supporters who may have difficulty evacuating the area, due to the impact that smoke bombs can have on their health.

“We therefore urge supporters, beyond the legal consequences, to consider the adverse impact their actions could have upon fellow supporters. Clubs must also place a great deal of importance on preventing these incidents and ensuring match days are safe for all.

“Further education is required in this area and Level Playing Field are keen to assist all parties with support and training.”

The statement comes after Sunderland blasted the 'unacceptable conduct' of away supporters at the Stadium of Light.

The smoke bomb was lit after Birmingham City scored in the 29th minute and then thrown down into the North Stand Lower in a fixture that the Black Cats would go on to win 2-1.

Sunderland AFC’s club statement read: “The individual responsible for this abhorrent act has been identified by CCTV and all relevant information has now been handed over to West Midlands Police, with Club representatives continuing to directly support those impacted.

“Fans are reminded that it is a criminal offence to attempt to bring a pyrotechnic device into a football stadium, or to be in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match.

“All identified offenders will be reported to the police and prosecution could result in a permanent criminal record, which may affect employment and education status, and could result in a prison sentence.

“SAFC has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of anti-social behaviour and remains committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all at the Stadium of Light.”

Birmingham City are yet to comment on the incident.