Personal injury news
24/10/2007

Car accident claims footballer's life

English football has been cast into mourning following the death of one of the game's talented youngsters in a tragic car accident.

20-year-old Hartlepool United midfielder Michael Maidens lost his life after suffering serious personal injuries while a front seat passenger in a Vauxhall Corsa on Friday 19th October. The driver had lost control of the vehicle and collided with a metal post as he attempted to navigate a roundabout on the A174 on Teeside.

Hartlepool cancelled their next-day League One fixture against Swansea City upon hearing of the road accident and the club's players are said to have been deeply affected by their team mate's death.

The club's chief executive released a statement, saying: "I think it's been a horrendous day for everyone connected with Hartlepool United Football Club. It's been an even more horrendous day for Michael's family. That's where our thoughts are."

Supporters were also shocked by the fatal car accident and one told journalists: "It just puts everything into perspective. He had so much to live for."

Another paid tribute to the midfielder, commenting: "He was so young but extremely dedicated to his football. Everybody is very shocked."

Flowers and shirts have been laid at Hartlepool's Victoria Park stadium and fans have been reminiscing about the youngster's short but illustrious career, which included 24 appearances and a stunning goal-of-the-season strike two seasons ago.

The car accident is currently being investigated by traffic officers and anybody who witnessed the incident has been asked to contact the police immediately.