
Birmingham City FC and Fans Pay Heartfelt Tribute to Leo Ross…
The tragic death of 14-year-old Leo Ross has deeply affected the Birmingham community, and this week, fans and players of Birmingham City FC gathered to honor his memory in a moving tribute during a match against Rotherham United FC. Leo, a student at Christ Church C of E Secondary Academy in Yardley Wood, was fatally stabbed on January 21 while walking home from school through The Shire Country Park in Hall Green, Birmingham. His passing has left his family, friends, and the city heartbroken.
In an emotional gesture of remembrance, the supporters at St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park stood together during the 12th minute of the match, observing a minute’s applause for Leo. The football club made sure Leo’s image was prominently displayed on the big screen, reminding everyone of the young boy who had a bright future ahead. The heartfelt applause united fans and players alike, all recognizing the loss of someone who was loved by so many.
Birmingham City FC manager Chris Davies addressed the tragedy in a post-match interview, calling Leo’s death a “devastating loss of life.” He spoke about the importance of paying tribute to the young boy, saying, “For us, it’s the least we can do to try and raise awareness and pay our respects to the boy.” Davies expressed his condolences to Leo’s family and all those affected by the senseless act of violence, which has shaken the local community to its core.
Leo’s family has described him as an “amazing, kind, and loving boy,” words that reflect the sentiments of everyone who knew him. Diane Henson, the executive headteacher at Leo’s school, echoed this by remembering him as “a lovely and happy young man” who had many friends and was adored by all who crossed his path. His tragic death has left an undeniable void, and his absence will be felt for years to come.
In addition to the minute’s applause, supporters paid tribute to Leo with wreaths placed at the football club on Saturday. A banner reading “Say no to knife crime – say yes to a safer future” was displayed, and balloons were released into the sky, each symbolizing a message of hope for a future free from violence. Birmingham City Official Supporters’ Club took the initiative to invite fans to join in honoring Leo’s memory, creating a collective outpouring of love and solidarity.
The club shared a touching message on social media, stating, “Leo was one of us, he was a Brummie but more importantly he was a loved one who was taken way too soon.” This statement highlights the deep connection between the boy and the community, as well as the collective sense of grief over his loss.
As the investigation into Leo’s death continues, a 14-year-old boy has been charged with his murder, possession of a bladed article, and four unconnected counts of assault. The accused is scheduled to appear at Birmingham Crown Court on April 22.
Leo’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the impact of knife crime, which continues to affect communities across the UK. His memory, however, will live on through the tributes, the messages of hope, and the fight for a safer future that his death has sparked. In these moments of grief, Birmingham City FC and its supporters have shown the power of community and the strength of love and remembrance.