Police are hunting for a group of football hooligans who clashed outside Leicester City FC’s stadium – just moments before the tragic helicopter crash which killed five people.
Rival West Ham and Leicester supporters were brawling with each other as the club’s owner perished in the crash on the opposite side of the King Power Stadium.
Fans become embroiled in the violence on Filbert Way at about 7.30pm on October 27 last year – the fatal crash occurred on the other side of the ground at 7.37pm.
All five people on board – the pilot and four passengers, including club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha – were killed in the tragedy that rocked the footballing world.
Now officers are trying to trace five men in connection with the fight, which broke out following a 1-1 draw between the clubs.
Officers have released images of the suspects in a bid to track them down and have already made six arrests in Leicester and London this morning (Thurs).
There were no reports of injuries but police have described the actions of those involved as “completely unacceptable.”
Detective Constable Jack Thomas, of Leicestershire Police, said: “Our enquiries into identifying those responsible have been ongoing since October last year and we have been working closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police.
“While no one has reported being injured the actions of those responsible are unacceptable.
“A number of people including families with young children were leaving the stadium after the match.
“Six men were arrested earlier today however we still wish to identify those in the CCTV images as they may be able to assist with our enquiries.
“If you recognise them or have any suspicions about who they may be we would urge you to get in touch.”
Three Leicester men, aged 29, 29, 48 and three London men, aged 21, 32 and 56, were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and remain in police custody.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC 1149 Thomas on 101.
By Richard McAllister
