A 33-year-old man was found dead at Charlton Athletic's The Valley stadium in London, a tragedy that has prompted Canadian clubs to review their own safety measures.
Police investigation
Police were called to The Valley in south‑east London on Tuesday morning following concerns for the welfare of a person.
The Metropolitan Police said the man was pronounced dead at the scene. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Detectives are investigating whether the man may have fallen from a height. His death is being treated as unexpected while inquiries continue.
The incident has reminded Canadian Premier League clubs of the importance of regular safety audits, a practice that gained attention after a similar incident at a stadium in Toronto last year.
Club response
Charlton Athletic expressed its "deepest sympathies" to the man's family and said the club would support police with their inquiries.
A spokesperson for Charlton Athletic said in a statement: "Charlton Athletic are supporting the police with their enquiries following the discovery of a deceased individual at The Valley on Tuesday morning.
"Police were called to the stadium today after an incident that occurred in the early hours of Monday morning. A male was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
The death remains under investigation. Anyone with information, or who may have witnessed the incident, is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 2809/18AUG."
Charlton also announced that their under‑21 fixture against Bolton, which was scheduled to take place at The Valley on Tuesday afternoon, had been relocated to their training ground at Sparrows Lane.
The man's body was found just days after Charlton's opening Championship game of the season.
"Everyone at Charlton Athletic would like to express their deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the individual's family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time," the statement added.
American fans who travel to watch English football also watch closely, as any safety lapse can affect cross‑border ticket sales.