A football coach from East Lothian, John Forsyth, suffered a traumatic brain injury following an unprovoked attack while on holiday in Blackpool with his daughter. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of July 28, has left his family devastated and seeking justice.
Key Takeaways
- John Forsyth, a dedicated football coach, was attacked while trying to intervene in a brawl.
- The assault has resulted in life-changing injuries, impacting his ability to work and engage in daily activities.
- His family is appealing for witnesses to come forward to help identify the attackers.
Incident Overview
On July 28, 2024, at approximately 1 a.m., Lancashire Police responded to reports of a brawl in Blackpool. Upon arrival, they found John Forsyth unresponsive outside the Shores Hotel. Witnesses reported that he had attempted to intervene in an altercation, which led to the violent attack.
John was immediately transported to the hospital, where he remains under medical care. His injuries have been classified as life-changing, and he is currently undergoing rehabilitation.
Family's Plea for Justice
Months after the incident, John’s family has made a heartfelt appeal for information regarding the attack. They described the traumatic impact of the assault on their lives, emphasizing that John was an active individual who coached children’s football and ran his own business prior to the incident.
In their statement, the family expressed their anguish over the random nature of the attack, stating:
"This could have been anyone’s dad, son, uncle, or friend. We are asking anyone with information to help identify the individuals involved to hopefully prevent this from happening to anyone else."
Ongoing Investigation
The police have interviewed several individuals in connection with the attack, including six men in their 30s and one man in his 20s, all under suspicion of grievous bodily harm. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward.
Community Response
The local community has rallied around John and his family during this difficult time. Support has poured in from friends, fellow coaches, and parents of children he has coached, all expressing their shock and sadness over the incident.
As John continues his recovery, his family remains hopeful for justice and accountability for the actions that have drastically altered their lives. They are determined to raise awareness about the dangers of violence and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
Conclusion
The unprovoked attack on John Forsyth serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of violence in public spaces. As the investigation unfolds, the hope is that justice will be served, and that such incidents can be prevented in the future. John’s story highlights the need for community vigilance and support for victims of violence, ensuring that they are not forgotten in their time of need.
