Shocking Twist: Masked Intruders Hijack Hearse During Gateshead Friendly, Sending Fans into Panic
Police investigate incident at Gateshead friendly as balaclava-clad men disrupt match with a hearse on the pitch; Authorities assure public that those involved are acquainted and pose no threat
Police have initiated an inquiry after a disruption occurred during a football match in Gateshead. The incident involved individuals wearing balaclavas who drove a hearse onto the pitch and threw leaflets. At the UTS Stadium, Dunston and Gateshead were tied 1-1 at halftime when the hearse and a Subaru made their entrance at approximately 8:20 pm.
The cars circled around the pitch, executing skids, while occupants inside tossed leaflets from the vehicles.
Subsequently, the individuals in balaclavas exited the hearse and entered the Subaru, before departing from the stadium. The hearse was abandoned on the pitch.
Northumbria Police stated that officers arrived at the scene promptly, where there were no reports of injuries or threats.
Following the incident, an investigation was swiftly initiated, and several inquiries are currently underway to fully comprehend the details surrounding the report and to find those responsible.
"We have a zero-tolerance policy towards disorder within the community, and strict actions will be taken against anyone found to be involved.
"Although the investigation is still in its initial phases, it is currently understood that the individuals involved have mutual acquaintances and there is no significant threat to the general public."
"We understand that there are images and videos of the disturbance circulating on social media. We kindly request members of the public to refrain from speculating and instead, to cooperate with the police by sharing any relevant footage for the purpose of aiding the investigation.
"Our dedicated police personnel are stationed in the area to conduct inquiries and provide reassurance to the public. If you have any concerns, we encourage you to approach an on-duty officer for assistance."
If you have any information or footage of the incident, please reach out to the police by utilizing the 'Tell Us Something' page on the Northumbria Police website. Alternatively, you can also contact them at 101 and provide the reference number NP-20230721-1154.
The club wants to make it clear that one person mentioned on the leaflets distributed during the pitch invasion has not had any official involvement with Dunston UTS FC for more than two years. The other person has no affiliation with our club at all.
We emphasize that we are a family-focused community club and sincerely apologize to our supporters and visitors, especially the younger fans, for any distress caused.
We will exert maximum effort to rectify the damage inflicted on our pitch and perimeter fencing, anticipating the upcoming season.
Given that it is an ongoing investigation, the club will refrain from making any additional statements at this time.
Gateshead have said they will be making no comment but tweeted on Friday: "Due to an incident on the pitch occurring shortly after half-time, tonight's match has been abandoned by the referee."
