Football fan ‘critically ill’ after gang attack at away match

West Midlands detectives have launched an investigation after the man, a Watford FC fan, received life-threatening injuries in an unprovoked assault after the club’s fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers yesterday.

The 44-year-old, believed to be milkman and father of two Nick Cruwys, was with a group of friends making their way to the train station to return home to Hemel Hempstead just after 5pm when they were attacked in Littles Lane, on the outskirts of the city centre.

Det Sgt Adam Keen from the force’s CID said: “The group of friends were completely outnumbered and the victim suffered a severe head injury which has left him in a critical condition in hospital.

“His family have been informed and we are in the process of taking statements from witnesses and locating any CCTV which might have captured those responsible for the attack.

“I would urge anyone with information which will help our investigation to contact me as soon as possible.”

The league meeting ended in a 2-2 draw at the Molineux Stadium.

Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey said the club will be working closely with West Midlands Police as they investigate the assault and will offer whatever resources it can to help them get to the bottom of what he described as a ‘horrendous’ incident.

He said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of this incident and our thoughts go out to the supporter concerned and his family.

“As a club we deplore any violence in or around football matches, and we will work closely with the relevant authorities to help bring the perpetrator, or perpetrators, to justice.

“All right-minded football supporters will share in our disgust at this violent incident, and I would implore anyone with any information to contact the police.”

The victim’s own club Watford also released a statement on the attack.

A spokesman said: “The thoughts of everyone associated with Watford FC are with a Hornets supporter - at yesterday’s game - who is now critically ill after an unprovoked post-match attack.

“The club urges anyone who can assist police with any information, to please call.”
Call the police non-emergency number on 101 with information.

Anyone not wishing to speak to a police officer can give information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.