Billy Vigar, a former player for Arsenal, tragically passed away at the age of 21 following a collision with a concrete wall during a match.
The striker, who was playing for Chichester City in the Isthmian League Premier Division, sustained fatal injuries during Saturday’s encounter against Wingate and Finchley while trying to prevent the ball from going out of play.
The game was reportedly halted as both an ambulance and an air ambulance arrived to aid the young player, with the match being called off after 13 minutes.
Vigar suffered a “significant brain injury,” which necessitated his placement in an induced coma.
Chichester has now announced the unfortunate news of his passing due to his injuries, sharing a statement from his family on social media.
The statement read: “After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put in an induced coma. On Tuesday, he required an operation to improve his chances of recovery. Although this helped, the injury proved too severe, and he passed away on Thursday morning.
“The responses to the original update show just how much Billy was cherished and respected in the sport. His family is heartbroken that this incident occurred while he was playing the game he loved.”
In light of this tragedy, Chichester chose to postpone their league match against Lewes on Thursday morning.
Vigar, who graduated from the Hale End academy, had a significant presence in Arsenal’s under-18 and under-21 teams before leaving in the summer of 2024 without making a senior appearance.
The football club expressed their sorrow over his death, stating on X: “Everyone at Arsenal is heartbroken by the devastating news that former academy graduate Billy Vigar has passed away. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this time. Rest in peace, Billy.”
He also spent time on loan at Derby County’s academy, where he was honored following his passing.
“All at Derby County are deeply saddened by the passing of Billy Vigar,” the club expressed.
“Billy was with our academy on loan from Arsenal during the latter half of the 2022/23 season, making several appearances for the under-21s. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this incredibly challenging time.”
This heartbreaking incident occurs nearly three years after the Professional Footballers’ Association called for a comprehensive review of safety regulations surrounding advertising boards, a response prompted by a similar injury incurred by former Bath City striker Alex Fletcher.
Fletcher, who was forced to retire at just 25 due to severe injuries from crashing into a concrete advertising board in November 2022, has shown support for Vigar during his ordeal.
Vigar joined Chichester this summer following experience in Sussex football with Hastings and Eastbourne Borough, where he scored his first senior goal.
