Since the weekend Greater Manchester Police have continued to work in close collaboration with both clubs and supporters’ groups to investigate a number of reports of tragedy chanting and video clips on social media.
In addition to eight arrests and a charge relating to pyrotechnics on Monday 18 March 2024, a further man has been charged in relation to tragedy chanting.
Michael Bernard Avery (06/11/1979), from Manchester, has been charged with Section 4a of the Public Order Act 1986 and has since been bailed.
This charge follows an investigation by GMP’s Specialist Operational football investigation team after a video was shared of a man in the home section of the Old Trafford crowd.
Other reports continue to be investigated including a video of alleged tragedy chants in the Liverpool section of the ground.
Chief Inspector Jamie Collins, Silver Commander for the event said; “Our investigation into this fixture in relation to supporter conduct is ongoing and continuing at pace and we encourage members of the public to carry on reporting incidents so we can investigate.
“We are reiterating the message that any kind of gesture or comments from any supporters to other clubs in relation to tragedy chanting will not be tolerated and is completely unacceptable.
“I would also like this to be a strong warning for any supporters attending future fixtures in Greater Manchester, including the up-and-coming Premier League fixture between these two clubs, that if you engage in this behaviour GMP officers will do everything possible to bring you in front of the courts.
“Both clubs involved, and the vast majority of supporters agree with this stance and despite the time passed we will continue to take proactive and appropriate action to tragedy chanting amongst other offences.”
GMP understands the interest this case will have generated but it is imperative that the suspect has a fair trial so members of the public must refrain from engaging in conversations online, at least until proceedings have concluded. Previously circulated videos should be removed.
