Mark Townsend, a 57-year-old season ticket holder for the Baggies, experienced a medical emergency half an hour into the match at Hillsborough and passed away shortly after. Fans in the Leppings Lane stand criticized the response time of the home stewards and medical personnel.

Last week, Mark’s brother Steve revealed that it took about 10 to 12 minutes for a medic and defibrillator to reach him, despite Mark being accompanied by his 21-year-old nephew. An Albion fan and off-duty paramedic at the game had initially provided aid.

Sheffield Wednesday is conducting an internal investigation in collaboration with West Bromwich Albion and relevant authorities. They issued a statement claiming that advanced paramedic care arrived within three minutes of the control room being notified, just one minute after the nearest steward was alerted.

The statement from Sheffield Wednesday expressed condolences to Mr. Townsend’s family and the West Bromwich Albion community. They confirmed that emergency medical care was on the scene quickly and pledged full cooperation with any coroner’s investigation while awaiting the results of their own review.

West Bromwich Albion reached out to the EFL shortly after the incident to gather all relevant information, believing a coroner’s inquest may be necessary to determine the facts surrounding Mark’s death. Steve Townsend stated that he and his family also seek justice for his brother.

During last Tuesday’s home match against Middlesbrough, Albion held a heartfelt tribute to Mark Townsend, with a minute’s applause involving players, officials, and away fans. Additionally, a fundraising campaign started by a Sheffield Wednesday supporter has raised over £2,500 to assist the Townsend family.

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